Forum Moderators: phranque
First a demand that everything I wrote became their copyright - no way! That one we have cleared up by my getting them to clarify that what I wrote in their time was their copyright only. On both sides, protecting copyright is understandable.
BUT
Second - with no explanations, and no clarification -'the right to monitor internet usage and email.' (Workplace computers not specified).
It looked like they were taking the right to just enter my computer and monitor what I do whenever! Thankfully they are now clarifying that - but the way that contract is worded I wonder how many people gave away the right of privacy on their own computer. Probably what they mean is not using work computers in work time - but that is a bit stupid as there is no office for tutors anyway and we all work from home,,,,,
There can be an argument, as this is in the childcare field, of checking people are not perverts but I can't see how they could still just take away personal privacy like this and this would be caught by police monitoring systems, I would have thought?
Just shows you have to be very careful what you sign......
It means a lot to me to keep my email content private, as I often counsel people who share their hearts - the idea a biggish place can just take away your right to keep your email private astounds me. Legally if I don't query this, then they could do so just because I signed on the dotted line! (we are not talking about workplace, but private home computers)..of course this organisation is NEVER getting anything email or internet wise from me now.
Now what does interest me - is how far could an organisation get by say tracking you on your own personal computer? - What software can they use to monitor you? Would any organisation unless tracking terrorists or criminals in which case that seems fine, ever be able to really monitor what you do unless they first broke into your house and accessed your computer. Can they hack me legally if I sign that document? - I don't think they would for a moment - and they are sending me a letter that says 'we don't have the resources to do so.' - But really! And is this really standard practice for all organisations?
Sheesh it feels like I was being asked to become their slave!
There is a streak of deep and fundamental disrespect for human rights going all the way through this organization. There will be some dark and mysterious corners of it might use a little looking into, I should think. Its not like they have any grounds for objecting to this sort of scrutiny. :)
And if you want to hack a pervert or terrorist you apply for a warrant - otherwise an accusation is as good as a fact and we can dispense with any pretence at a rule of law.
Matt
