Are you aware of the risks to your business of employees accessing social network sites?
Consider the risks:
Cyber-slacking - Social networking sites can be addictive and time-consuming. Cyber-slacking is a genuine concern.
Reputation risk - There is also a risk to your company’s reputation. Social networking is more public and less formal than company email. It is also easier to use than blog software. It’s easy to imagine employees posting pictures or text that would embarrass their employer.
Indiscretion - Inadvertent disclosure of confidential information is also a risk. You wouldn’t publish your organisation chart and phone directory on the internet; but a head-hunter or identity thief can use information on social network sites to reconstruct this kind of information.
Viruses and spyware - Social networking sites often display advertisements. Beware that adverts on several popular sites that install viruses and spyware.
Legal Risks - It may be tempting to monitor employees’ use of social networking sites. However, the Data Protection Act 1988 says that employees are entitled to a degree of privacy at work. Similarly, the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act 2000 sets limits on a company’s ability to monitor or record employee communications. It’s a legal minefield. Tread carefully!
HCS recommend that companies give serious thought to social networking and how they want to manage the risk. In particular:
• Make sure your network is protected against web-borne viruses. For example, some web security services provides multi-layered protection against existing and emerging malware.
• Have a clear and comprehensive Acceptable Use Policy in place. Ensure that employees are aware of it. Review and update it often
• Put your policy where employees can see it. Post a copy on your intranet or send a summary out with their payslips.
For more information contact us on 01417766456 or alternatively email enquiries@humancapitalservices.co.uk or visit our website: www.humancapitalservices.co.uk.
If you would like to receive free regular e-updates highlighting employment legislation changes and current HR-related topics please contact claire.glennon@humancapitalservices.co.uk
19 February 2009, webeditor
news feed