Research conducted by Network Associates, questioned IT managers within the UK, about the aspects of computer security found that 71% thought that workers were not taking the issue of security seriously enough and are even ignoring security risks.

This could be a result of a lack in IT skills and also that 70% of senior executives were not appropriately aware of the importance of security risks and were failing to implement correct safeguards and procedures.

The responsibility of security safeguards has to lie with the organisation as it would not be wise to depend upon IT users to follow the correct measures, even though sensible measures and awareness would be recommended.

Many managers appear to be under the impression that by simply purchasing anti-hacking applications such as a firewall and anti-virus software is enough protection, will be heading for serious problems. By introducing measures to educate employees into best practice is a crucial step that organisation should be considering to safeguard their IT systems.

It has been estimated that computer viruses and hacking into systems has already cost businesses world-wide around £1.600bn this year alone.