Companies say social networking sites are a no-go

Despite the popularity of social networking sites, a new survey by Sophos found that half of workers say their companies have blocked access to these sites.

The block, which has been implemented by companies such as Credit Suisse, and Goldman Sachs are largely placed due to companies’ fears that workers’ productivity would be compromised. Seven percent of workers say that access to such sites is only allowed for executives with business intentions.

Graham Cluley, senior technology consultant at Sophos, said, “Companies are split on the question of Facebook. Some believe it to be a procrastinator’s paradise which can lead to identity theft if users are careless. Others either view it as a valuable networking tool for workers or are too nervous of employee backlash if the site is suddenly blocked.”

Cluley also went on to add that if companies allowed access to social networking sites, their staff should be taught best practices so as not to put their corporate data at risk.