Employers are generally within their rights to monitor activity on company-owned devices. In other words, if you provide employees smartphones or laptop computers, you may follow their activity using GPS or IP addresses. This includes devices taken off-site or utilized during non-working hours.

The law is less clear, however, when an employer wishes to track employees who use their personal devices for company business. But in general, if the employer had monitored the employee only during business hours, the search would have likely been lawful. For more info visit greensfelder.com  sommerspc.com

PS: We highly recommend that you consult your legal department or a lawyer to ensure you understand your country’s laws.

TL;DR

While employers generally have the right to monitor activity on company-owned devices and during business hours, the situation becomes more complex when it comes to tracking employees who use their personal devices for company business, especially during non-working hours. The legality of such tracking can vary significantly depending on local laws and regulations.

To ensure that you are complying with the laws and regulations in your specific jurisdiction, it is highly recommended that you consult with your legal department or seek advice from a qualified lawyer who specializes in employment and privacy law. They can provide guidance on how to navigate the complexities of employee tracking, privacy concerns, and legal compliance in your country.

It’s essential to strike a balance between monitoring to ensure productivity and respecting employee privacy rights. Legal counsel can help you establish appropriate policies and procedures that align with the law while addressing your business needs.