Nato defence ministers met in the Netherlands last week to discuss issues of cyber defence.

The ministers discussed the effectiveness of Nato's own defences against cyber attacks as well as the possibility of being able to provide further protection for member states should they require it.

Finalised policies will be announced in 2008 at a Nato summit meeting of heads of state.

Nato developed cyber defence capabilities in 2000 after attacks originating from Balkan states.

The second phase of the programme is being given additional importance after cyber attacks on Estonia paralysed the country's government web sites and online banking systems.

Nato was unable to help Estonia defend itself against the attacks.

The UK and the Pentagon have also been reported to have suffered similar attacks this year.