Hackers are more likely to target more reputable firms next year, with big businesses being encouraged to invest in the best security systems possible.

Dan Hubbard, the chief technology officer at Websense, told security specialist SC Magazine that given many companies use their online presence as a portal to the central network, some may be in danger from targeted attacks during 2009.

"In the case of sites that allow user-generated content, the site owners need to research solutions that monitor and prevent bad code, links and other content from being uploaded onto their site," Mr Hubbard continued.

The expert added that due to the rise in proliferation of attacker toolkits, which allow customised attempts on company resources, "extensive monitoring" was needed alongside regular checks on the company's online facilities.

Using complicated passwords for computers and updating software when prompted are two great ways to make sure to the best of your abilities that your computer will not be attacked, according to online resource CRM.

A recent Connect survey found that the two major concerns about outsourcing services like IT support were 'loss of control' (56 per cent) and 'budget over-runs' (43 per cent).