The BCS Chartered Institute for IT has launched a new Savvy Citizens web site designed to boost the technical knowledge of the UK population.

The organisation said that just 20 per cent of UK citizens are "information savvy", and warned that the remainder are missing out on many positive benefits of new technology.

"Unless all members of society are made aware of how they can access and use information in their daily lives, the significant proportion of Britons who are failing to realise the benefits of IT will persist," said Elizabeth Sparrow, president of the BCS Chartered Institute for IT.

"This is not just a question of access: information-savvy citizens also know how to use information and IT to their advantage."

New research by the BCS found that the most technology-aware citizens are likely to be men aged 18 to 44, in full time employment and educated to degree level and above. These men also spend about 10 hours a week involved in activities such as checking their carbon footprint, reading and publishing blogs.

The Savvy Citizens site offers advice and recommendations, including guidance on using price comparison sites, watching video on demand, and boosting personal online security.

"The research suggests that, in some areas, people are becoming savvier about the value of information. But, at the same time, almost one third don't take even basic safety precautions, like using strong passwords, to protect their identities," said Sparrow.

"It is vital therefore that those citizens are informed about how IT can improve their lives. Until this is achieved, large sections of society are at risk of losing out. Education, attitude and skills are key if we want to create an information society with information-savvy citizens."