Unit 7: Workplace Privacy.

* Workplace privacy:
Is the protection of  individual privacy rights in the workplace.

 In companies of all sizes, employees and managers are likely to engage in communications and other activities that aren't directly related to their jobs. For instance, a worker might check his personal email at work or talk to a friend or family member on his work phone during his lunch hour. Workplace privacy describes the extent to which employers monitor and collect information on the activities, communications and private lives of workers.

*Monitoring Methods

Employers may monitor employee activities in a variety of ways, many of which are related to the use of computers. According to Bankrate, possible methods of employee monitoring include tracking Internet usage, archiving computer files, storing employee emails and instant messages, logging keystrokes, recording phone conversations, testing for drugs and maintaining video surveillance. Businesses may also track the use of key cards or use satellite technology that keeps track of the use of company property such as cars and phones.

* Considerations

Employees should be aware of an employer's policies regarding personal activities at work and the use of technology for activities that aren't related to work. If you aren't sure whether a certain activity or website is sanctioned by your employer, avoid it.