UK Employers Use "Bossware" to Track Employees' Online Activities: One Third of Firms Now Monitored

A Third of UK Firms Using 'Bossware' to Monitor Workers' Activity, Survey Reveals LONDON - A recent survey has found that nearly a third of employers in the United Kingdom are using "bossware" technology to track their employees' online activities, raising concerns about employee surveillance and data protection. According to the Chartered Management Institute (CMI), which conducted the UK-wide survey, one in seven employers are recording or reviewing screen activity on employer-owned devices. The findings suggest a significant growth in computerized work surveillance, with many monitoring systems aimed at preventing insider threats and safeguarding sensitive information. "We're seeing a trend of increased use of technology to monitor employees' online activities," said Dr. Ann Francke, CEO of the CMI. "While some employers may see this as a necessary measure to prevent data breaches or protect intellectual property, others may be using it as a way to exert control over their employees." The survey found that private companies are most likely to deploy in-work surveillance, with nearly 30% of respondents reporting that their organizations monitor workers' online activities on employer-owned devices. However, the report also noted that many employers are unclear about what tracking their organizations do, suggesting that the actual number may be higher. In contrast to the UK findings, a recent survey by the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) found that in 2023, less than a fifth of people thought they were being monitored by an employer. The ICO has expressed concerns about the growing trend of employee surveillance and its potential impact on data protection. "This is a worrying trend," said John Edwards, UK Information Commissioner. "Employers must be transparent with their employees about what data they are collecting and how it will be used. Employees have a right to know if they are being monitored and to have control over their own online activities." The use of bossware technology has sparked debate globally, with some countries taking a more permissive approach to employee surveillance while others have implemented stricter regulations. In the United States, for example, the National Labor Relations Act prohibits employers from using electronic monitoring to discipline or retaliate against employees. However, many US companies continue to use such technologies, citing concerns about data security and intellectual property protection. As the debate around bossware technology continues, experts warn that employee surveillance can have serious consequences for both individuals and organizations. "Employee surveillance can lead to a culture of mistrust and fear," said Dr. Francke. "It's essential for employers to strike a balance between protecting their interests and respecting their employees' rights." The CMI survey highlights the need for greater transparency and regulation around employee surveillance, particularly in the UK where the use of bossware technology is on the rise. As the global debate around employee surveillance continues, one thing is clear: the use of bossware technology raises complex questions about data protection, employee rights, and the balance between employer interests and individual freedoms. *Reporting by Tech.*