BUSINESSES have been warned about the threat of cyber crime.

Business organisation the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) is urging companies to be vigilant after research indicates firms that fall foul of cyber crime lose an average of £4,000 and many close down within two years of the loss.

It comes after business service firm KPMG, which has an office at Duke’s Court, Southampton, found that as many as two thirds of companies disregarded the threat to their digital data and online processes in 2013.

Neil Eames, development manager for the FSB, said: “Cyber crime is a massive issue for everyone including businesses. Many businesses simply don’t realise they are at risk and often, assume cyber criminals are only targeting banks or larger online retailers.

“The reality is that if you have an online presence, you are a target. It is vital that all businesses try to give time and consideration to their online and data security.”

The FSB said in order to stay safe online firms should check government and regulatory service websites to learn about the latest threats, keep staff trained on the dangers and ensure they regularly change computer passwords, keep anti-virus software up to date, draft strategies on what to do if the worst happens, check the URL is secure by making sure it starts ‘https’ before paying online.