Most UK firms neither police nor update their electronic data policies, it was claimed today.

Email and web management company Email Systems said that electronic data policies are usually mentioned only when a new employee joins and signs a contract.

Such policies tend to focus on email, and many firms neglect to ensure that both email and web usage are covered within the policy.

Currently, many employees either do not realise or simply disregard the fact that their email activity and browsing habits are potentially monitored, irrespective of any corporate policies that may be in place.

As all IT equipment, data and intellectual property belong to the employer, Email Systems expects to see an increase in the number of businesses taking action against employees disregarding their wishes.

Neil Hammerton, chief executive at Email Systems, said: "As email and web use are filtered and monitored, firms are likely to begin acting on these policies and ensuring that employees are aware of their boundaries.

"It is vital that the policies are up to date and incorporate aspects such as use of social networking sites, for example, in addition to other more generic issues such as use of personal web mail during work hours."