Technology company Apple has been accused of illegally spying on its employees through their devices and iCloud accounts. Employee Amar Bhakta, who works in the company’s digital advertising department, made the allegation while filing a lawsuit in California on Sunday (December 2).
Amar claimed that Apple required employees to waive their right to privacy as a condition of their employment. The lawsuit also alleges that Apple requires its employees to agree to a policy under which the company can monitor them physically, video and electronically, even when they are at home.
Apple requires employees to install the software on any personal device they use at work. This software allows Apple to access certain applications on employees’ personal devices
A prison for employees of the Apple ecosystem
The lawsuit claimed that the Apple ecosystem was not a walled garden for employees. It’s a prison yard. A panopticon where employees remain under Apple’s surveillance, whether they are on duty or not. Amar says Apple is spying on employees’ personal data.
According to media reports, Apple’s policy states that all data linked to an employee’s personal account when using their personal device is subject to company research. This includes emails, photos, videos, notes and other items.
Amar Bhakta also alleged in the lawsuit that Apple restricted employees’ free speech by not allowing them to speak about their working conditions and pay. The company even prohibits political activities by its employees.
Apple has denied all allegations
According to media reports, Apple released a statement saying the allegations made in the lawsuit were unfounded. Company spokesperson Josh Rosenstock said: “At Apple, we strive to provide the world’s best products and services. We work to protect the innovations our teams create for our customers.
Every employee has the right to discuss their salary, hours and working conditions and this is part of the Business Conduct Policy. We train all employees on this every year. We completely disagree with this statement and it has no basis.