Member Article

Social Networking sites pose risk to 1 in 6 companies

One in six of UK employees are concerned that social networking sites are a major risk to corporate security.

That is according to research from global risk consultancy Protiviti, who warned about the potential negative effects of misusing such websites.

Following the rise in popularity of sites such as LinkedIn, Twitter and Facebook, users are becoming concerned about privacy and security.

The consultancy asked staff whether employers should do more to explain the principles of using social media.

27% said that more should be done, while only 3% said less focus was needed.

The research also highlighted a continued generational divide faced by organisations.

Younger workers, aged between 18-24 were found to engage more frequently, with 74% using social media everyday whereas 21% of those aged 55-65 were daily users.

Managing Director of Protiviti, Jonathan Wyatt suggested that the lines between public and private use of social networking had blurred, presenting a challenge for employers.

He said: “On one hand, employees are using social networking tools for managing activities in their private life - but accessing these tools from corporate systems.

“On the other hand, employees are being asked to carry out specific tasks relating to work via the same social networks.

“Opening up access in the workplace to social networks can create long-term benefits , however, there are many risks involved, including information security breaches.”

Protiviti’s research found the main risks to be potential leakage of sensitive information, unintentional uploading of viruses and individuals falling prey to fraudulent scams.

Mr Wyatt went on to say: “In some companies, social media risk isn’t even on the agenda; it is only when serious loss of information and or theft occurs that this subject is given priority.

“Social media has provided a new environment for criminals seeking an alternative way to commit fraud and other crimes.

“Employers must set out clear guidelines to help control information supplied, and which, when shared via social networks, will benefit a company’s internal and external image.”

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This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .