An ABC News article warns employees that they are probably being monitored at work and their surfing habits are likely being watched. It also lists these three penalties that some companies are coming up with.
Limiting access to sites: Employers are using software to block your access to specific Web sites, such as job search sites and personal e-mail accounts. However, if it's determined that you're visiting shopping sites too often, they have the ability to add them to the list of blocked sites, thereby cutting off your access.
Suspension of Internet privileges: If it's determined that your personal Internet and e-mail usage is excessive, expect your employer to suspend your privileges, especially if e-mail and Internet aren't essential to your job.
Monetary fines: This is perhaps where it hurts the most. I spoke to dozens of employers who say they already impose fines - or will begin imposing them - starting at $1,000 per violation for abuse or excessive use of Internet and personal e-mail.
$1,000? It may be time to upgrade to broadband at home if employers are going to take it that far. What some employers are missing is that most employee surfing at work is probably not cutting into actual work time.
