58% of SMEs hit by malware

Johannesburg, 27 Aug 2009

Some 58% of small to medium enterprises (SMEs) worldwide are affected by malware, according to a global security barometer compiled by Panda Security.

Panda's report revealed that around 60% of Greek companies had to halt business activity at some time due to malware, as did 15% of Hispano-American businesses and 46% of Canadian firms. The global average was 30%.

“This study shows the importance of having a security solution that protects companies from the multiplicity of threats they face,” says Jeremy Matthews, head of Panda Security's sub-Saharan operations.

Brazil, at 86%, is the country with the highest percentage of infected SMEs, with Greece next at 73%. In addition, 36% of SMEs suffered productivity losses and 15% lost important data.

These infections occurred despite 93% of companies worldwide having some type of security system installed, according to the security company. Panda adds that 93% of SMEs have an anti-virus, 79% have a firewall, but just 63% have anti-spyware and 52% anti-spam protection.

Free security

According to Panda, 26% of SMEs with a security system rely on a free software solution. The highest number of companies using free software is found in the UK (57%). Countries such as the USA (49%) and China (44%) also have a high percentage of free software usage. SMEs who don't have a security system in place claim it's too expensive.

Panda reveals that 37% of SMEs worldwide spend less than $300 per year on security measures. Just 17% spend more than $1 400.

The USA, where 22% of companies spend more than $1 400 a year, and Germany (37%), are the top countries regarding security investment. The bottom positions are occupied by countries such as Italy (12%) and the UK, where only 2% of companies spend more than $1 400 annually on IT security.

Some 55% of companies considered security as an important factor in the business. However, only 64% have someone dedicated exclusively to security.