The dangers of cyber crime and how to protect against unauthorised digital access will be under the spotlight in Sussex next month.

A symposium will showcase powerful technologies and techniques to help protect organisations from intellectual property theft and malicious attack.

Experts in the field of data security will share their knowledge and there will be a hacking demonstration by Brighton-based I-Sec.

The company, based at the Sussex Innovation Centre (SINC), tests web site security by hacking into clients' sites to find their vulnerabilities.

Ms Anjuu Trevedi, SINC senior research analyst, who is co-ordinating the event, said: "Almost daily, organisations in the UK are threatened by one virus or another and there is a constant threat that valuable data will become compromised and worthless.

"The event will be an entertaining and lively forum for delegates to experience the latest technology and meet other people who share their concerns. It is aimed at anyone who owns or uses a computer and anyone who handles digital content."

A survey from TruSecure indicated almost 50 per cent of responding companies have had their web servers defaced so far this year, a rise from 24 per cent last year.

The symposium will outline ten difficult questions to ask your internet service provider and web site developer.

Companies due to give presentations include Oxfordshire-based Sophos Virus Protection, Belgian biometrics and user authentication company, Keyware Technologies, and encryption specialists, Thales, and web site security company, Sigmer Technologies, both from SINC.

The event takes place on Friday, November 9 (9.30am to 1pm) at the Gardner Arts Centre, University of Sussex. Places are limited and will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. Free registration is available online at the SINC web site or by calling 01273 704400.

www.sinc.co.uk/conferences