Cyber-snooping is rife in the UK, with men reading other people's email at work and women spying on partners at home, according to research.

According to a survey commissioned by security company Symantec, given the opportunity, many staff would read messages or files on other people's computers and mobile phones.

Men are the worst culprits, with a quarter admitting they would look at colleagues' salaries on their bosses' computers if they had the opportunity, while only 13 per cent of women said they would spy on colleagues.

A quarter of men would check out corporate plans and financial information, but only 10 per cent of women would take the risk, according to the survey.

But snooping on personal information was less common, with 14 per cent of men and just 10 per cent of women admitting they would spy on their bosses' personal data.

But when it comes to snooping on partners at home the survey found that the tables were turned, with 40 per cent of women admitting they would check their partners' emails.

And 60 per cent said they were willing to look at suspicious text messages if they thought their partners might be cheating.

Symantec's consumer and small business director, Kevin Chapman, said: "People are naturally curious and there are individuals out there who will read confidential emails or information if you let them."

He added that protecting oneself comes down to good basic security practices. "If you don't want colleagues, friends or partners to read files on your computer or messages on your mobile, make sure you're password or Pin-protected.

"Also, prevent colleagues from reading documents on your PC when you're at lunch by locking your screen or using a password-protected screensaver.

"Finally, always make sure you use the right security tools, like a firewall, to protect you from hackers and other unwelcome cyber-visitors," he said.