Workplace surveillance grows amid privacy concerns

A report by the Associated Press highlights the widespread use of workplace surveillance technologies adopted during the COVID-19 pandemic. Employers are tracking employee locations, productivity, and communications using digital tools, often without transparent disclosure. The article cites cases such as a pharmacist whose appointment lengths were monitored, and a college adjunct professor whose comments on student essays were read by administrators. An investigation by Vanderbilt University, Northeastern University, and the University of California, Berkeley found that common monitoring programs share personal worker data with data brokers and tech companies. Privacy experts and workers express concerns about the lack of transparency and the potential for intrusive data collection. Some states, including United States — New York, United States — Connecticut, United States — Delaware, and United States — Maine, have enacted notification requirements, with United States — Maine prohibiting visual monitoring in homes and vehicles unless job-related. The report advises workers to research surveillance trends, coordinate with unions, and avoid using work devices for personal matters.