In this ever increasingly cost concious environment it's worth remembering that one area that small businesses must not neglect is IT security.

Updating anti-virus software, using encrypted technology and protecting confidential information are all vital as criminals and fraudsters look to take advantage of economic confusion and anxiety to target businesses and home users.

Recent research from the Department for Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform shows that the average cost of a severe breach of security for small businesses is between £10,000 and £20,000. If news of such breaches leaks out, the damage to the reputation of the business could cost much more.

The PC Support Group has also noticed an increasing trend for potential customers to check whether a firm has suitable technology and policies in place to protect against possible data loss, so taking responsible security measures could also help you win business!