THE UK leads the world in computers that have been hijacked by malicious hackers, according to a new report.
Research by security firm Symantec shows that 25 per cent of the world's remotely controlled PCs are found in Britain.
The compromised computers are being used to send spam, launch attacks on websites and steal identities.
Symantec said the rise of broadband in Britain and user ignorance about the dangers of the internet contributed to the figure.
Compared to 25.2 per cent UK machines hi-jacked by hackers, Sy-mantec found 24.6 per cent in the US and 7.8 per cent in China.
And compromised computers were being used for attacks on websites for extortion or to steal confidential information.
Nigel Beighton, director of enterprise strategy at Symantec Europe, said: "New broadband business customers may not be fully aware of the additional safety precautions that need to be taken when using an always-on, high-speed internet connection."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article