Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent

Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.

Social Partner

Report reveals shocking extent of workplace surveillance

A report by the Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR) reveals that young workers and black employees are most likely to be subjected to surveillance in the workplace.
Common methods of workplace surveillance include call recording, email analysis, and even webcam monitoring, with shop floor staff, call centre workers, and delivery drivers at high risk of surveillance.
The IPPR is advocating for legal reforms to grant workers a voice in how they are monitored and managed, both in the workplace and remotely, citing potential breaches of privacy rights.
The research indicates that individuals in low-skilled, low-autonomy, and non-unionised roles are at higher risk of workplace monitoring, with workers aged 16-29 and black employees particularly vulnerable.
The IPPR said that current legislation has not kept pace with technological advancements and new legislation and more transparency requirements are needed.