Viruses and worms have been blamed for over $12 million of lost revenue according to the FBI's Computer Crime Survey, according to reports.

The organization is advising firms to invest heavily in appropriate levels of security for their business to avoid more significant losses.

The report found that over 90 per cent of the 2,000 businesses that were interviewed had suffered some form of virus of attack, many of which had lead to financial losses.

Susan Sarna, vice president of marketing and product management for Embarq, said: "Our research has shown that at least half of all businesses believe that data security is one of the most pressing issues they face.

"No one security measure can protect them from all threats, so we worked with security industry leaders to develop a one-stop security toolbox."

Small and medium-sized businesses are being urged to protect themselves against online threats, according to an expert in online marketing. He also advises that organizations should educate their staff about the dangers of online surfing.

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