Certified Information Privacy Professional – United States (CIPP/US) — Question 131

Although an employer may have a strong incentive or legal obligation to monitor employees’ conduct or behavior, some excessive monitoring may be considered an intrusion on employees’ privacy? Which of the following is the strongest example of excessive monitoring by the employer?

Answer options

• A. An employer who installs a video monitor in physical locations, such as a warehouse, to ensure employees are performing tasks in a safe manner and environment.
• B. An employer who installs data loss prevention software on all employee computers to limit transmission of confidential company information.
• C. An employer who installs video monitors in physical locations, such as a changing room, to reduce the risk of sexual harassment.
• D. An employer who records all employee phone calls that involve financial transactions with customers completed over the phone.

Correct answer: C

Explanation

The correct answer is C, as installing video monitors in a changing room constitutes a clear violation of privacy and can be seen as excessive surveillance. Options A and B involve monitoring for safety and data protection purposes, which are generally considered acceptable practices. Option D, while potentially intrusive, is more aligned with business operations in financial transactions and may not be viewed as excessive compared to monitoring in personal spaces.