One in three computer users now keeps over 200 mp3 files on their PC, according to research commissioned by Tiscali.

In addition, almost half of computer users keep over 200 photographs on their PC instead of a photo album, thus risking losing it all if their computer suffers a crash.

Tiscali surveyed over 4,000 people and found that awareness on how to safeguard data is still low among British computer users.

Half of respondents admitted that they don't back up any of their music, photos, personal or business files. With as many as 57 per cent having experienced a computer crash in the last 12 months, all this information could be at risk.

To address the problem, Tiscali has launched downloadable software to protect data on users' PCs in the event of a system crash.

Tiscali Recover runs regular ambient or scheduled system updates ensuring that data from as recently as an hour before the crash can be restored.

The software works by creating a separate area on a users' hard disk where essential information can be backed up and stored.

As well as the core operating system, Recover allows users to retrieve applications, user settings and data files, ensuring that essential information can be restored in case of a crash.

An easy graphical interface guides users through the steps to restore the PC to its pre-attack condition.

Steve Horley, Tiscali UK's managing director of consumer products and marketing, said: "Tiscali Recover allows users to surf securely and enjoy the best possible broadband experience.

"It doesn’t require you to send your private data to a third party and it is also very cost-effective, particularly when you add up the value of your digital music collection or consider how many precious photos you have."

Tiscali Recover costs £1.50 a month or £12 for a year. System updates can be set by the hour, week or month, according to user preferences.