National Health Service computer systems will make use of IT security provisions, including encryption and port control services, it has emerged.

The technology will be provided by IT services company McAfee in an attempt to protect confidential staff and patient data on PCs, laptops, PDAs, smartphones, hard drives and removable media, according to the firm.

Mark Ferrar, director of infrastructure in the technology office of the NHS Connecting for Health department, said that protecting patient information against data security threats is essential.

He continued: "McAfee data protection technology closely matched our extensive requirements and at a price that represents exceptional value for the taxpayer."

Mr Ferrer went on to say that the new provision can integrate with existing software deployment tools.

Earlier this week, experts at IT security specialist Sophos warned that vulnerabilities which could be exploited by hackers can be found in Mac and Windows versions of Microsoft Office software.


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