Are employers in North America legally allowed to monitor employee's internet mail such as yahoo, AOL, hotmail?

I am wondering about the legality of this issue.

Yes, that is correct. It must be understood by the employee in a written acceptable use policy (signed by employee) that the computers are for buisiness use only and subject to monitoring. It must clearly state that there should be no expectation of privacy while using the company owned machines. There should also be a clause that states that non-company owned machines should not attempt to access company resources (internet) or they will be subject to the same policy as company owned machines.

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MCSE, MCSA, CCA, Network+, A+, Server+, Microsoft Small Business Specialist

• All software used on Company's systems shall be approved for Company use and properly licensed.
• I shall not move or modify computer hardware associated with network services.
• I shall not introduce unauthorized software, copy or use gaming software not already part of the standard set of operating system utilities.
• I understand that the E-mail and Voice Mail systems and all information transmitted by, received from, or stored in those systems are the property of Company.
• I have no expectation of privacy in connection with the use of these systems or with the transmission, receipt, or storage of information in those systems.
• I am aware that the company reserves and will exercise the right to review, audit, intercept, access and disclose all matters on the company's computer, E-mail, Voice Mail, EDI and Internet systems at any time, with or without notice to me, and that such access may occur during or after working hours.
• I am aware that Company may purge files at any time, without notice.
• I am not to use a password that has not been disclosed to the company, and I am aware that the use of a company provided password or code does not restrict Company’s right to access any of the Information Technology and Communication Systems.
• I agree not to use a code, access a file, or retrieve stored communications unless authorized.
• I understand that these systems are to be used only for business and not for personal purposes.
• I understand that those employees that have authorized Internet access shall limit their use to business related activities. Users shall not use Company computer systems to communicate any obscene, offensive, abusive or derogatory material. Any Internet activity shall only be undertaken for Company company uses and is fully subject to all Company information security policies.


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Bill Hubbard
Forum Pro
Windows IT Pro Magazine