So far the law has lagged behind developments in technology but is now beginning to catch up with legislation like the Human Rights Act, the Data Protection Act, the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act and the Lawful Business Practice Regulations. All influence what employers can and cannot do to restrict and monitor how employees use the Internet whilst at work.

 

Cyber slacking

The new term 'cyber slacking' has emerge to describe the employee who's productivity has dropped owing to the time they spend online, shopping, on chat rooms, even gambling. The Internet offers many new distractions which if left unchecked can be very costly for an employer.

Social Media and Blogs

The widespread use of Social Media sites and blogs is the new and very easy way for the exchange of news, ideas, pictures and more. Whilst individuals and businesses are discovering how to use this new media to their advantage, there is also a need to guard against its misuse.

It is all too easy to say the wrong thing, by accident or diliberately. Having a set of clear rules to guide and govern the correct use of this powerful media at work is now essential for employers to protect their staff, the good name of their company and themselves, particularly as the line between work and home life is becoming increasingly blurred.

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