Research by BT Openworld found 28 per cent of companies claimed software solutions designed to protect their business from security threats would not be of use, particularly among firms employing less than five people.

However with recent stories about the damaged caused by the Blaster worm virus, BT Openworld claimed the tide could be turning with more companies choosing to review their IT security.

The number of hits on the BT Openworld website rose by 500 per cent as businesses looked to find out how they could protect themselves from attack.

In addition sales of BT Openworld’s Internet Security pack – which is designed for small firms and provide advanced security protection – had increased by around 100 percent.

Neville Manuel, vice-president of value added services at BT Openworld, said it was frightening how small companies were ignoring the risks of IT security threats.

“No matter what size business you are, a major security problem could bring all your systems to a halt.

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