27 Apr 2009

Online crime 'a major concern'

Online crime is an increasing danger to businesses during the current economic climate, a specialist claims.

Neil Fisher, vice president of global security solutions at the worldwide information technology company Unisys, says everyone is now at risk when doing work online.

He points to a recent poll by web gateway products provider Finjan, which uncovered a network of 1.9 million malware-infected corporate, government and consumer machines, as evidence of the rise in cybercrime.

"One very important message to relay, which often comes up against a brick wall, is that people also have a responsibility to conduct themselves sensibly online," Mr Fisher says.

He also highlights a point made by Ian Readhead, director of information for the Association of Chief Police Officers, who said there had been a significant spike in the perception that online crime levels are a direct result of the recession.

The expert concludes that everyday precautions are often adequate in warding off crime, but the same practices must be enforced when employees venture online.