Laptop theft risk to public sector

More than one-third of laptop computers used in the public sector contain information that would represent a serious security breach if the device was lost or stolen.

Notebooks are becoming increasingly common in central and local government, but insufficient attention is paid to securing potentially sensitive data, according to a survey by researcher YouGov on behalf of Thales e-Security.

Only 23 per cent of users say their laptop contains encryption software that could help to protect information. Just one in 17 claim they have had their notebook PC lost or stolen - but 34 per cent say they are aware of thefts or losses in their department.

All new laptops purchased by the Ministry of Defence have had to use hard disc encryption since April, and by 2006 all MoD notebooks must have similar levels of protection. But there are no wider edicts across the public sector.

Government figures suggest over 200 laptops are reported missing every year.

'There are still many serious issues that need to be addressed,' says the report.

'Not only is encryption not being offered universally but there is also a large element of ignorance among laptop users about how to use it and what it does.'