Small businesses are being warned about the potential technology threats posed by wearable technology, which will be a top gift choice this Christmas.

Tipped to be one of the most popular gifts of 2014, wifi-enabled wearable technology is about to flood UK workplaces, but it could cause a headache for security experts.

Data security expert Walter Rossi at specialist business IT and telecoms provider Daisy Group said watches, jewellery and glasses could lead to problems through viruses and data leaks.

“Many organisations are already struggling to deal effectively with the issues raised by people bringing their own personal mobile devices to work, but there will be new problems to deal with when people receive wearable technology as Christmas presents,” he said.

Wearable gadgets might not have proper controls or anti-virus software installed, potentially spreading malware – malicious code used by criminals to steal sensitive data – across business networks.

Other more minor problems include the proliferation of internet-enabled devices slowing down business wifi connections for employees.

Rossi says the best way to deal with the problem is to lock out unknown devices from company wifi and to create a guest network that does not interfere with formal business communications.

He added: “Blocking access for personal devices may be counterproductive as staff will always try to find a way around this. Additionally, some personal devices may actually make business smoother in the case of time management and making staff easier to contact."