05/05/2011
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) need to pay more attention to the IT security risks facing their businesses.
That's according to a recent survey by an internet service provider, Eclipse, which found that over half of the 1,300 SMEs surveyed hadn't heard of a famous "Facebook-targeted" worm.
52 per cent of respondents believed the worm, named Koobface, was a social media site; whilst 13 per cent said it was a children's television character. Only 30 per cent recognised it as a worm and the significant threat it posed - particularly if employees are able to log onto Facebook whilst at work.
Data security should be a prime focus for all companies, large or small; however some could be worried about the costs involved in installing the right software or systems. For those in that situation, options such as invoice discounting can be really useful - helping them to free up cash to re-invest back into their company's future safety.
A spokesperson for Eclipse, director Clodagh Murphy, spoke out about the results; claiming: "With more and more users logging onto Facebook at work, it is imperative that all businesses are mindful about the impact threats such as Koobface worm could have on their day-to-day business operations."
"As small business owners, you should analyse online operating systems to determine the areas most at risk. In order to create a culture of security, small businesses must demonstrate to employees and customers that cyberfraud is a concern you take seriously."
The comments were echoed by eWeek.com, which confirmed that Koobface was "one of the most dangerous social-networking threats making the rounds" in recent months. Furthermore, it said that the worm would probably go on to target other social sites.
Deborah Bates