Police are warning Britain's IT experts that they have become potential targets for organised criminals.
Hi-Tech Crime Unit chief Mr Len Hynds says the risk stems from their access to corporate secrets.
He says businesses should be aware that criminals may be recruiting experts for this reason.
He fears existing staff or job applicants may have been intimidated into stealing valuable data.
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He told Computing: "Organised crime always buys in expertise. If the most valuable asset is a computer the expertise they bring in will be IT."
Companies are advised to weigh the value of data stored on computer systems when recruiting new staff.
PA