Lost data blamed on human error

A survey of Windows NT managers in the US has found that human error rather than viruses or system failure causes the vast majority of data loss.

According to the survey, by Broadcasters Network International, 88 per cent of respondents said accidental deletions are the leading cause of lost data, followed by 7 per cent blaming intentional deletions, and 3 per cent viruses.

According to reports in the US media, the survey also revealed that 48 per cent of network managers think backups don't provide complete protection, because data can be lost between backups.

Twenty-six per cent of respondents said backups aren't reliable and can often fail.