SMEs targeted in computer crime push

The National Hi-Tech Crime Unit (NHTCU) is targeting SMEs in a campaign to raise awareness of computer crime.

The NHTCU has produced a booklet for small firms advising them of how to protect themselves from the usual security threats, including viruses and phishing, and who to talk to if they have been the victim of an attack.

The booklet also deals with less obvious issues including how to ensure staff and consultants don't pose a threat, security policy writing and how to fool would-be hardware thieves by turning off out-of-office auto replies.

Smaller businesses can be the weaker link in security, without the resources or dedicated IT staff to tackle the issues.

The booklet, What your business really needs to know - an SME guide, can be downloaded from www.nhtcu.org.

The Office of Fair Trading is also trying to educate UK users on how to avoid email and other scams. The OFT will be working with the police on a campaign that will see half a million leaflets and posters distributed.