SMALL BUSINESSES have embraced the internet but 16 per cent don't use anti-virus software and 30 per cent don't use a protective firewall, a new study shows.

That leaves them at risk from an extensive and increasing number of internet threats, the Australian Institute of Criminology (AIC) says.

The survey - the Australian Business Assessment of Computer Use Security (ABACUS) - included 3290 small business respondents, with 14 per cent reporting one or more security incidents in the period 2006-07.

Seventy-five per cent of those who experienced security incidents reported adverse consequences including loss of data, unavailability of service and an average financial loss of $2431.

On top of traditional threats including viruses and malware, new threats are emerging.

The survey found that 84 per cent of businesses were using anti-virus software, 63 per cent were using anti-spam programs and 58 per cent were using anti-spyware tools.

But only 70 per cent of small businesses were using firewalls to protect their computer systems and only seven per cent had policies in place stipulating acceptable computer use by staff.

"The risks for businesses and their online customers are likely to change and potentially increase,'' Report author AIC analyst Alice Hutchings said.

- -

Read more at the Herald Sun.

This finding highlights the risk gap that occurs when businesses don't enforce - and reinforce - security policies.

12.00 Normal 0 false false false EN-AU X-NONE X-NONE PolicyPoint is the easy-to-use service that ensures all staff – from board level down – are aware of, and understand the policies and procedures you need them to know. Contact us for more information on how to help boost staff performance while increasing awareness of compliance obligations.