Valuable role for VARs in SME security boom

Resellers set to cash in after e-crime unit issues security advice to SMEs

Resellers stand to gain from a boom in spending on IT security among SMEs, following publication of advice on computer crime from the National Hi-Tech Crime Unit (NHTCU).

Tony Neate, NHTCU industry liaison officer, said many firms are unsure how to deal with computer crime.

"This is about offering basic advice on the minimum requirements. It is not meant to be an absolute bible," he said.

Chris McNab, technical director at security consultancy Matta Security, said: "Small businesses do not have the technical expertise to keep on top of the ever-changing hacker landscape."

Implementing a secure business network is a significant challenge for many companies, opening up opportunities to third parties, McNab added.

Glenn Morrisson, managing director of Upgrade Options, said: "SMEs tend to react to things that will lose them money, but security is one of those areas where people are playing catch-up."

Richard Hollis, managing director of security consultancy Orthus, said: "There's a lot of confusion about legislation. The channel needs to focus its sales pitch."

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