How Employers Monitor Remote Workers And What That Means for Privacy

Remote work was seen as a temporary solution during the pandemic. But it has now become the norm for millions. In 2024, 75% of employees with jobs that can be done remotely worked outside the office at least some of the time.

This trend is continuing into 2025, so employers are increasingly adopting monitoring methods. Many rely on constant check-ins and tools that track screens and keystrokes. If you work remotely, it is important to understand how employers monitor remote employees and what it means for your privacy.

4 Common Ways Employers Monitor Remote Employees

Let’s take a closer look at the common ways employers monitor remote employees.

1. Screen Tracking Software

Screen tracking software lets employers see what employees are doing on their computers. Depending on how it is set up, it may log which apps and websites are accessed, take periodic screenshots, and record keystrokes.

Companies use screen tracking software to ensure that remote employees are productive during scheduled working hours. However, if employees are not properly informed, the process feels invasive and strains trust between employees and employers.

2. Webcam Surveillance and Mouse Activity Tools

Webcam surveillance and mouse activity tools help employers notice when employees are doing something else or away from their computers. Some companies have an always-on webcam policy, so they can keep an eye on employees.

Others have apps or extensions that track mouse movements, like scrolling or clicking. These may keep employees focused, but they may also backfire by micromanaging. Micromanagement affects morale, which, in turn, harms productivity. In addition, it can create a toxic work environment in the long run.

3. Time Tracking and Productivity Metrics

Time tracking and productivity metrics allow employers to keep tabs on how long employees are working and whether they are making good use of their time. For the 9-5 remote worker, time trackers ensure they are getting their hours in. Meanwhile, these tools ease billing for freelancers or contractors paid by an hourly rate.

Certain software tracks time spent on each task, so employers can see which tasks take the most effort and identify potential bottlenecks. Tracking time and paying close attention to productivity have their benefits, but they can also cause stress if employees are expected to be active every minute of the day.

4. Monitoring Communication Channels

Monitoring communication channels generally involves reviewing and archiving messages in tools like email, Slack, and Zoom. Companies do this to protect sensitive information. They can detect suspicious activity, such as when someone tries to share confidential files outside the organization.

They also want to ensure employees follow policies and maintain professional conduct. Reviewing messages makes it easier to check that communication stays respectful.

However, employees can feel like their every word is being scrutinized. They might be hesitant to share ideas or discuss problems openly. Over time, this toxic productivity can hurt collaboration and make it difficult for teams to solve issues effectively.

Legal and Ethical Implications of Remote Monitoring

The legality of remote monitoring depends on where you are. In the U.S., the Electronic Communications Privacy Act (ECPA) allows employers to monitor work communications if they have consent or a legitimate purpose.

States can also have additional requirements. For instance, Connecticut employers must post prior written notices if monitoring tools are used.

In the EU, the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) requires employers to have a lawful basis for collecting employees’ data. They must be clear to employees about what is collected, how it is used, and how long it will be stored.

Within remote work settings, some member states have specific provisions. For example, in Greece, Law 4808/2021 bans the monitoring of teleworkers' performance through webcams.

Even if remote monitoring is legal, a lack of transparency damages trust. Employees can feel betrayed or blindsided if employers are wishy-washy about what they are tracking and why.

Moreover, constant surveillance can affect employees’ morale and mental health. They are pressured to look busy when they know that every click is recorded. Long-term, this can also contribute to burnout.

How to Protect Your Privacy While Working Remotely

To protect your privacy while working remotely, start by asking for the company’s monitoring policy and reading it carefully. Do this before accepting a role; understand whether you will be notified when there is monitoring, what will be collected, and how it will be used.

Always use work-provided devices for work only. Doing personal activities with devices that are issued to you by your company can expose your private information.

You should also set clear boundaries with your employer. Ask your employer to explain what is being tracked and why, if monitoring feels excessive. You have the right to transparency, especially if the monitoring affects your productivity.

Finally, maintain a healthy work-life balance. Avoid checking messages when you are off the clock, take breaks regularly, and create a dedicated workspace if you can. Even small habits, like logging out at the end of the day, help reinforce the line between your professional and personal life.

Looking for Remote Work? Know What You’re Signing Up For

When looking for a remote role, check each company’s technology requirements in the job description and research their monitoring practices or policies. If you are required to install surveillance software on your personal devices, think about how that impacts your privacy. You might also consider using a trusted online CV builder to tailor your application toward companies with clearer privacy practices.

In your resume, highlight your time management skills. Employers will also value your ability to work independently and reduce the need for strict oversight. You can use a job-winning resume template to build a resume that showcases these strengths and helps you stand out.