Small businesses do not do enough to protect themselves against online security threats, according to a former White House security adviser.

In a recent speech on IT security, Howard Schmidt said that although 90% of small businesses install anti-virus software, 10% never update this software leaving their PCs vulnerable to new threats.

Anti-virus companies regularly release updates to the signature files in their programs which identify threats.

But many businesses and individual web users do not keep their anti-virus programs up to date. Small businesses are often seen as an easy target for attack by malicious individuals.

As well as causing damage to files, malicious programs can also be used to steal confidential data such as customer details.

Businesses need to take online security into account in their planning, and make sure training is used to keep IT staff up to date.

Related Tips: Check For Viruses

5 Steps To Keep Your PC Safe Online