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Newer online threats such as spyware are not widely known about by company directors of SMEs and could adversely affect their businesses, according to new research.
Most small businesses are well aware of the importance of anti-virus protection for their computer systems, but other areas of online security provide a stumbling block for some SMEs, according to Get Safe Online.
Over 90 per cent of small businesses now have firewalls and anti-virus software but many do not have anti-spyware programmes.
Research published by Get Safe Online in June 2007 indicated that 44 per cent of small businesses in the UK have been the victim of cyber crimes, such as identity fraud and data theft.
Of those businesses affected, 36 per cent had suffered a computer virus and 18 per cent reported being the victim of internet scams such as phishing or hacking in the last two years.
Tony Neate, managing director of Get Safe Online, said: "Spyware is a newer concept, but to be fair, most anti-virus companies now include in their packages a complete package covering anti-virus, phishing, spam and spyware but if all you have is anti-virus you are not safe."
Get Safe Online is a joint initiative between the government, the Serious Organised Crime Agency and leading businesses, which aims to help individuals and small businesses protect themselves against internet security risks.
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