New communication technology, social networking and online marketplaces are threatening workplace productivity, according to a study by the Centre for the Study of Media Technology and Culture, an affiliate of Lancaster University.

The UK risks becoming a nation of 'cyberloafers', according to a new study, as new communications tools such as instant messaging, social networking sites and online marketplaces are distracting employees from doing their jobs during the working day. The study revealed that more than a quarter of the nation spends more than four hours each week using the Internet for personal purposes during work time.

The study found that online shopping and instant messaging were identified as two of the biggest distractions for employees during their working day.

Professor Michael K. Hulme, director of the Centre for the Study of Media Technology and Culture, says: "There is no question that the boundaries between home and work are gradually being broken down. Whilst employees are spending more time at work using the Internet and communications tools for personal means, they are also allowing work to intrude into their personal time, often without financial reward. As a result, many businesses overlook this 'cyberloafing' because of the willingness of employees to work outside contracted hours."