Wireless broadband users who do not put proper security measures in place are leaving themselves at risk, according to one newspaper.

The Daily Mirror has highlighted the problem of other nearby computer owners using a subscriber's wireless network for free.

As well as possibly gaining access to personal information, such intruders could also incur charges to the bill payer for any downloads which may come over a set allowance.

The security lapse usually occurs when a broadband customer has failed to set a password on their home wireless network

The Mirror advised: "You should use a password for accessing your wi-fi connection. Know your download limit. And make sure you have appropriate security software and a firewall in place."

Research conducted by Moneysupermaket found that amateur hackers were able to tap into 25 per cent of home wireless connections tested.