IT managers fear security risks of outsourcing IT despite stringent controls of leading providers

The increasing popularity of outsourcing has failed to debunk misconceived fears among IT managers on the security risks surrounding switching from in-house systems. A YouGov survey, commissioned by IT assurance specialist NCC Group, found that 20 per cent of IT managers working in large businesses believe that their outsourced systems and processes have less IT security than those based in-house.

However, the report also revealed the inexorable rise of outsourcing with 89 per cent of large companies in the UK outsourcing at least one IT system or business process. A separate PA International Outsourcing Survey 2009 found that 31 per cent of companies plan to outsource more IT over the next year.

As a global outsourcing company which works with businesses to plan, design, construct and operate a security rich environment for online applications and transactions, NIIT Technologies is on a mission to debunk some of the myths surrounding the security risks of outsourcing.

Ravi Pandey, Senior Vice President and UK head at NIIT Technologies, said: IT managers are right to exercise caution when switching business critical functions to a third party. But IT managers should not be swayed by false fears about outsourcing. Our solutions contribute towards a safer and more compliant business, providing clients with best-of-breed security consultants and an onsite/offshore delivery model, based on stringent service level agreements and adhering to the latest ISO security standards.