Eighty per cent of advisers struggle on the road with poor wireless internet, while more than three-quarters are concerned about the security of open networks, according to research which points to dissatisfaction with technological infrastructure.
A third admitted they have been targeted by cyber criminals and said the safety of remote working is a key issue, with 78 per cent concerned about the security of open networks used by themselves and their employees.
The study by network support company Lifeline IT, among 300 advisers, revealed IT is vital to 70 per cent of intermediaries who work increasingly remotely.
However, 80 per cent said access to reliable and fast public Wi-Fi is a concern and a further 57 per cent cited poor mobile reception and ‘dropping calls’ as a problem, with 49 per cent of those questioned being frustrated at having to pay for sub-standard services.
Daniel Mitchell, a founder and director of Lifeline IT, said: “Sadly, we weren’t at all surprised by these findings. We know from working with our own clients that businesses are becoming increasingly frustrated by poor network connections that are way below standard.
“Although there have been huge developments in the range of devices now available so employees don’t have to be desk-bound, the infrastructure needed to service these state-of the-art smartphones and tablets does not always match-up.
He added: “It is particularly frustrating for businesses when they see such vast improvements in other parts of Europe, where efficient, free public Wi-Fi is commonplace.”
