Question

How does the Internet create new ethical issues? Do you believe it is unethical for an employee to use the Internet on a company computer for personal use during company time? Is it unethical for the employer to monitor that usage?

Answer 1

The Internet creates new ethical issues for the company as the technology has become so advanced that the world has come to the fingertips of the people. From assessing the knowledge to interacting with people in real-time the technology has created ethical issues for the companies. The employees are found engaged in several other activities while they are still in their work job. For example, employees assessing social media while they are in office doing the task assigned to them. Also, employees engaged in shopping is another such ethical issue for the company.

Yes, it is definitely unethical to use an office computer for personal use. Employees are hired to devote their time to the task and goals assigned to them. The facilities are also provided for the same. Using a computer for personal use is a misuse of the facility and exploiting the faith and trust the employer had in the employees.

It is ethical on the part of the employer to monitor the activity of their employees, but only up to a certain extent. It should not involve intruding in the private space of the employees. Also, it should be done only when it is necessary and employees should be informed in advance.