While companies are embroiled in a war with the Government over
whether the security services should have access to their encrypted
corporate e-mail systems, it seems some employees aren't too
bothered about a bit of surveillance in the workplace, writes
Antony Savvas.
Network camera provider Axis Communications ran a competition to
find users' most appropriate use of its products, and found that
47% welcomed workplace surveillance. In addition, 26% were in
favour of special camera attention being paid to the server room to
protect network security.
One respondent says, "We would want a camera to keep an eye on
the office and contract staff outside working hours. A number of PC
cards have mysteriously disappeared from some of our workstations
and the culprit has not been found."
Others have more self-centred motives, saying that Web-based
cameras could be used to monitor their homes while at work.
However, why bother being at work in the first place?
Has it not occurred to network support staff that they can
simply watch the server room over the Internet, and only have to
come into work once the red light goes out on the box?
Axis admits this is one use, but don't expect it to be part of
the sales pitch to the boss.
Watch out
Do you think surveillance at work is a good thing or not? Send
your views to: cwxtra@rbi.co.uk