Workplace Surveillance on the Rise: Protecting Personal Data
Employer surveillance using technology is increasing, raising concerns about employee privacy, even in remote work environments.
Employers are increasingly using technology to monitor employee whereabouts, productivity, and communications, a trend that accelerated during the pandemic and continues to raise privacy concerns. These digital tools can track locations, collect data on task completion rates, and access work-issued devices.
Experts and employees highlight risks associated with this heightened surveillance. Advanced data science enables employers to create detailed employee profiles that can be used for punitive measures or behavioral prediction. Investigations have also revealed that some monitoring programs share employee data with third-party brokers without clear disclosure.
Real-world examples illustrate the impact of such monitoring. A pharmacist reported being scrutinized for the duration of patient calls, leading to stress and the termination of her employment. Another educator discovered administrators were reviewing personal comments made on student essays, causing feelings of insecurity.
Employees are advised to collaborate with colleagues to advocate for their rights and to research the types of data being collected. Understanding state laws regarding notification requirements and limitations on monitoring in private spaces is also crucial for protecting personal information.