Personal email and internet usage at work is a tricky thing if you happen to be an employee. Different employers have different rules about it.
While some suggest that personal email and internet usage is just like using the work telephone for personal matters, I don’t find this analogy entirely appropriate. People tend to spend a lot more time online than on the phone.
That being said, I do believe there’s a similarity between personal use of a work phone and personal use of email and internet usage. It should be limited and not interfere with your work.
For example, since most people don’t run side businesses at work using the office telephone, employees shouldn’t use the office internet or email for gain not related to their employment. While speaking briefly to loved ones on the a work phone is generally tolerated at work, most employers won’t allow their employees to engage in prolonged chat; the same should apply to personal emails and text messages.
Finally, do employers have the right to monitor their employees’ email and internet usage at work?
The short answer is, employers do have this right, at least in Ontario. The employers own the equipment and pay for the internet connection, and therefore they have a right to watch what’s coming and going. What’s more, the employers may also monitor internet and email usage for security concerns.
Although it’s difficult to gauge exactly what’s allowed and what’s not without referring to a specific policy of a specific employer, employees should err on the side of caution. If your personal internet and email usage feels wrong, it probably is.
Note: This is not legal advice. Please consult a licensed lawyer in your jurisdiction if you have specific questions on this topic. I can be reached at 416-433-5531.
