Wi-fi technology presents cyber-criminals with a window of opportunity, new research suggests.

IT support firm Sophos' Security Threat Report 2008 says that organised criminal gangs may begin targeting Wi-Fi enabled devices such as the Apple iPhone and iPod Touch.

The report added that as uptake of these products increases, cyber-criminals seeking big returns could start to exploit flaws in the software.

And it is not just new gadgets that put their owner at risk of cyber-crime.

Graham Cluley, senior technology consultant at Sophos, said: "It's possible to lose money through phishing and identity theft on any device with an internet connection.

"As it becomes more common for people to use a Wi-Fi enabled device which carries personal information, the greater the temptation for hackers to take advantage with malware in the future."

The fact that Wi-Fi offers a fast, permanent internet connection can make users more vulnerable to hackers and malware programmes.

According to a recent survey by Connect, the two biggest IT headaches for businesses were 'everyday hassles with IT' (37 per cent) and 'security concerns' (32 per cent)