The company, which has offices in Hampshire and Northhants, said it has failed in its attempts to raise new funds from investors in the current economic malaise but claims to have several potential buyers.

Its problems arose because Revenue & Customs reportedly refused to allow the company to postpone repayment of its cash debts.

Peter Cox, its chief executive, said that he remained hopeful of a sale of the business saying that there were several international companies interested in the company.

He added: "This action is intended to protect the present and future business of ID Data Limited, and to ensure that customers are fully served. 

"I wish to assure our customers, suppliers and staff that we are hopeful of being successful in our delivery of a solution that will see this business prosper and continue to develop, be this under the ID Data Group or new ownership."

ID Data is owned by ID Data Group, which is not in administration.