Apple Inc. is reportedly facing a lawsuit from employee Amar Bhakta, who alleges the company unlawfully monitors employees’ personal devices and iCloud accounts.
Filed in California state court, the lawsuit claims Apple mandates employees to install software on personal devices used for work, granting the company access to personal data such as emails, photos, and health information. Also, it alleges that Apple’s policies permit surveillance of employees even when off duty and within their homes.
Bhakta, part of Apple’s digital advertising team since 2020, asserts that these policies have adversely affected his career opportunities. He claims he was prohibited from public speaking engagements related to digital advertising and was instructed to remove job-related information from his LinkedIn profile.
Apple has refuted the allegations, stating that the claims lack merit. The company has emphasised its commitment to employee rights, noting that all employees receive annual training on their rights to discuss wages, hours, and working conditions.
This case highlights the ongoing debate over employer access to employees’ personal devices and data, especially as the lines between work and personal life become increasingly blurred. For businesses, it highlights the importance of establishing clear, lawful policies regarding employee privacy and device usage to maintain trust and comply with legal standards.
Also, the outcome of this lawsuit could set a significant precedent, potentially influencing corporate practices concerning employee monitoring and privacy rights, and prompting companies to reassess their policies to ensure they respect employee privacy while safeguarding corporate interests.