UCI Cinemas is using virtual private network (VPN) technology to give employees secure remote access to the company's systems.

The chain, which is owned by film makers Paramount and Universal, is providing staff in 11 countries outside the US with technology that allows them to log in to applications wherever they are travelling.

UCI is using SSL (secure socket layer) VPN technology from Netilla Networks in conjunction with an authentication device from RSA Security, provided as a managed service from supplier Signify.

Staff can now access their email, financial reporting systems and other applications using the key-fob device from RSA that generates secure access codes to restrict unauthorised users.

'Staff don't even have to have their laptops with them,' said Danny Larah, group infrastructure manager at UCI Cinemas.

'They could log in from an internet caf‚ if they wanted, because they have their fob.'

The system is also allowing staff based at the parent companies in the US to securely access UCI's financial systems via the VPN.

(Blob) Mobile network operator Orange has unveiled the UK cinema industry's first mobile ticketing service. 'Orange Wednesdays' offers film fans two cinema tickets for the price of one every Wednesday. Orange users can take up the offer by texting a special number, and the mobile ticket can be redeemed in 97 per cent of the UK's cinemas, according to Orange.