Wireless internet (WiFi) attacks recently carried out on the Thompson hotel chain in the US could be easily repeated on similar targets in Great Britain, it has been reported.

Global Secure Systems (GSS) has emphasised the dangers many computer and laptop users may face after a hacker promised to upload a number of embarrassing emails onto the world wide web after stealing them through an unprotected WiFi network, in turn highlighting the need for security systems.

Managing director of GSS David Hobson said that many people used browser-based email to save time and hassle when travelling, potentially spelling out problems for the user.

"You need to ensure your PC/laptop is set up with personal firewalls to stop hackers bouncing off hotspots on to your hard drive," he said.

He added that UK hotels should look into the possible run of "copycat hacker attacks on this side of the Atlantic".

Last month, it was revealed that Republican vice-presidential candidate Sarah Palin had her online email accounts hacked, causing an investigation the FBI.

More than half of small businesses (53%) believe that the most important benefit of outsourcing is guaranteed response times for IT support, London based Connect conducted the research in 2007.