Recent reports suggest that computer hackers will start targeting mobile phones and smartphones in order to obtain personal information.

The creation of malware programmes for computers has existed for a several years and many cyber-criminals have come to realise a profit can be made from this.

Smartphones, such as the Blackberry or iPhone, are becoming increasingly popular with consumers, however because of the quantity and the way data is stored on the devices, they are open to phishing scams and potential identity theft.

IT security company McAfee, has issued its Global Threat Report stating: "Unfortunately, the inconveniences - including unsolicited messages - that most people detest on their PCs today will also storm mobile devices."

The report adds: "Cyber thieves follow the money. This is too large an opportunity for criminals to ignore."

According to figures on the BBC, ten new viruses and trojans have been released in 2008.

Despite this, there are significantly smaller amounts of mobile malware in comparison to malware for computers.

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) In a recent survey of SMEs for Connect, the two most important benefits of outsourcing were 'guaranteed response times' and 'allowing in-house IT staff to concentrate on more strategic issues'