Employees could have internet access blocked by new software

The "web cop" software has been developed by Askaris, based in Richmond, for small firms unable to afford big business systems.

It allows managers to police the internet activities of their staff and block access to inappropriate sites.

Askaris said the system also protects firms from web-borne threats.

Blocked

Managing director Sean Allison explained that the system routed employees' internet access through a separate server which has been set up to check whether sites are appropriate.

If someone tries to visit an inappropriate site at an inappropriate time, they will see a message on their screen explaining that they have been blocked and why, he said.

Sacha Dover, the firm's business development manager, said: "It's not a spy, it's a deterrent."

Many firms have internet use policies that staff agree to uphold whenever they sign on and start work.