Failing to have adequate internet security protection can have a "devastating effect" on small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), one expert has claimed.

Tony Neate, managing director of Get Safe Online, says that SMEs must make sure that they have up to date anti-spyware and anti-virus packages installed on their computer systems - as increasing numbers of them become dependent on technology.

"For the companies that use the internet as part of their day to day work, it can be devastating," he said, of the threat posed by security risks.

"If companies are involved in transacting or advertising online, they will maybe need to take more action in terms of getting third party security," Mr Neate added.

In June of this year, Get Safe Online revealed that around 44 per cent of SMEs have at some point fallen foul of cyber crimes such as data theft and identity fraud. Of those affected, 36 per cent had been caught out by a computer virus and 18 per cent had been affected by online scams.

Mid Sussex Conservative MP Nicholas Soames has been banned from driving for two months for driving a quad bike on a public road without any vehicle insurance.Crawley magistrates' court fined the 60-ye...

Allianz Global Corporate & Specialty (AGCS) has set up a team of broker development and key account managers to strengthen ties with clients in the UK.The broker development team comprises Matt Br...

The insurance industry can respond effectively to the next major claim incident if all the elements work closely together.That is the message from Malcolm Edwards, president of the Chartered Institute...