BUSINESSES in Bury and elsewhere in the North West are leaving themselves open to cyber attack.

And small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) need to consider their approach to implementing Internet security.

That's the message according to research published by VIA NET.WORKS UK.

Based on a recent online survey of 138 SMEs, VIA's findings reveal that these companies do not see their businesses being seriously affected by online security issues, such as viruses and hackers.

Only 39 per cent of respondents in the North West view viruses as a significant threat to their business, citing a mistrust of anti-virus solutions and lack of sufficient protection as the areas for greatest concern.

Respondents also wanted Internet service providers to take greater responsibility for screening and combating viruses.

Most SMEs were ambivalent to the threat of external hackers. But 49 per cent admitted that in the event of a virus or hack attack, they were concerned that back-up systems were inadequate.

The screening of obscene or illegal web content was rated as the least important security worry for firms in the North West, with only 12 per cent citing it was a great threat.

Jeff Meulman, VIA managing director, said: "Small and medium sized companies can least afford the disruption that can be caused by today's cyber terrorists, whether it is a hack attack, virus or other security breach.

"Businesses will soon find the short-term cost savings associated with a piecemeal approach to security will be more than offset by lost business and damaged reputation."