What is excessive workplace computer monitoring?

Question

At my work my line manager has requested that I reveal my personal password that unlocks my computer and hard drive.
I have refused to do this.
Apparently the IT department have stated that it is OK for a line manager to request this so they can "monitor" computer use. I was always told that passwords should not be given out to anyone and should be changed regularly.
I work for a Local Authority and simply cannot believe that this level of monitoring (lets call it snooping!) is sanctioned. There are remote methods of pc monitoring.

Has anyone else had an experience like this in the workplace?
When does "monitoring" become "harassment"?

Answer 1

I would want the request put officially in writing and a copy put in my file. The reason being if my account was then accessed without my knowledge and misused I'd want to be able to prove my account was no longer secure.

Security is usually done remotely and by keystroke loggers which flag any potential problems which would then be investigated. If there is a problem on your machine the IT dept might need access to your account to clean it.

You might want to see ACAS for advice, plus mention it to your union rep. This might be a reasonable request since its not your computer, but as a part of a campaign of harrassment or under the radar bullying it could be part of a bigger problem.

Answer 2

The owner of the computer system(s) you use at work is the entity you work for. They have the right to access your 'assigned' computer at any time they like. They paid for it and maintain it. They also have the right to track what is done on this system because realistically there are millions of dollars lost in work hours being wasted on the computer rather than on the job at hand. Some workplaces that use technology (like computers) can lose as much as one third of the workday for some employees that choose to surf the net, email, IM, etc. instead of doing the assigned task(s).



Surf, email, IM at home --- Work at Work.

Answer 3

The computers you use at work are the property of your employer. As such they are entitled to know what you do with their equipment. Being forced to give your manager, while a bit OTT is permitted. You should change your password to one that you do not use in your personal life before giving them to your manager but, unfortunately, he/she is allowed to have it.

Then when you go home, update your CV and start looking for a new job. Any manager the micro manages like that is not good to work for...



PS - Sarah does have a point about having it put in your file. Your boss could do bad things and you would/could get the blame...

Answer 4

Look at it from a managers perspective.



Excessive workplace computer use!

"Something i am probably going to get called up for soon!"



I keep vowing to not use the internet in work but my job is extremely tedious and there is so much to learn and so much fun to have on here.



(i need to purchase that laptop sooner rather than later)



Good luck

Jo

Answer 5

Some employees do take 'unauthorised' advantage of equipment, but I expect your password is to prevent 'unauthorised' access to files you are working on. Its reasonable for an employer to know 'all' passwords or even supply them, for the network. I would guess that some disgruntled employee somewhere, has left after changing a password, without telling his/her boss.

Answer 6

I expect they have installed something called 'ghost key logger' .. it monitors every computer key stroke you make. Means they can see everything you have ever typed.

I would refuse!!

Answer 7

Unfortunately an employer is allowed to monitor use of their IT equipment whenever/however they like.

......hmmm....maybe I should get of Y/A now.....