Quick Guide for IT Personnel: Understanding Employee Privacy on Company-Owned Devices

In today's digital work environment, companies have more tools than ever to boost productivity and efficiency. However, this shift also brings important questions about employee privacy, especially regarding information on company-owned devices.

Many employers and IT personnel believe that if they provide employees with a company-owned device (COD), employees should not have an expectation of privacy on that device. In other words, any activity taken on the COD or any information stored on the COD is fair game for the company to view and own. Being under this mistaken assumption can be a risk to the business and IT personnel who are not familiar with what a “reasonable expectation of privacy” is, and put the company at risk of a privacy breach.

Understanding the legal aspects and potential risks is essential as businesses develop monitoring practices. This article will help employers and IT staff navigate the complexities of employee privacy in Canada, with practical examples and steps to protect your business while respecting employee rights.