A data breach has been reported by Radisson in the US, which may affect a number of individuals in the UK who used the group between November 2008 and May this year.

Radisson Hotels and Resorts got in touch with customers to let them know that a hacking had taken place - something which the US police and security services are looking into in great detail.

It is believed that guest information which was copied or taken could have included the name printed on the credit or debit card used, the number on said card and even the expiry date, sparking worries that accounts could be accessed.

In a press statement, the organisation said: "Radisson values guest privacy and deeply regrets this incident occurred. Working with law enforcement and forensic investigators, Radisson is conducting a thorough review of the affected computer systems."

Earlier this month, the Radisson hotel in Leeds was revealed to be the scene of a fire alarm 05:00 BST wake-up call when the England cricket team were staying there, with the problem being attributed to a smouldering pair of stockings drying on a light.

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.