How to Learn About Online Privacy in the Workplace

At home, your online privacy is practically identical to your telephone or personal privacy, but the rules change when you are at the workplace. In some cases, judges have upheld the right of employers to monitor the online communications of employees, so before you get into trouble, learn about online privacy in the workplace.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Learn About Online Privacy in the Workplace

1. Become acquainted with the Electronic Communications Privacy Act of 1986 (see Resources below). It unfortunately does not provide much privacy in the workplace, but it is the basis for both the assumption of privacy and the employer loopholes.
2. Look through the papers you received when you were hired. Every company's policy about online privacy is different. If it is your employer's policy to monitor employee online activity, in many cases you were asked to sign a form surrendering your privacy rights.
3. Ask your co-workers if they are aware of the privacy policies at the workplace. Learn as much information as possible.
4. Seek out the expert advice of the technical support department at your workplace. They would almost assuredly know exactly what the employer does and does not do.
5. Ask your employer about what level of privacy the employees at your workplace can expect. Every company is different, and it is very likely that your employer has a specific policy about such matters.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are a part of a union, the issue of privacy at the workplace may be an issue to take up with the local delegate.
• In general, avoid overly sensitive or personal communications using work email.