The CMI poll of over 900 managers found that around 36 per cent of organisations monitor on-site workers, a figure that remains consistent for hybrid (32 per cent) and remote (30 per cent) teams
Nearly a third of British organisations are now monitoring employees’ online activity across all working models, according to new data from the Chartered Management Institute (CMI).
The CMI poll of over 900 managers found that around 36 per cent of organisations monitor on-site workers, a figure that remains consistent for hybrid (32 per cent) and remote (30 per cent) teams. The most common forms of surveillance, often carried out using so-called ‘bossware’, include tracking login and logoff times (39 per cent), monitoring browser history (36 per cent), and checking email content (35 per cent).
The data reveals a significant divide among managers regarding the practice. A majority (53 per cent) expressed support for monitoring online activities on employer-owned devices, arguing that it helps prevent system misuse (56 per cent), protects sensitive data (55 per cent), and ensures regulatory compliance (42 per cent).
However, managers who oppose the surveillance cited severe damage to workplace culture. The vast majority (79 per cent) said it undermines trust between employers and employees, while 70 per cent felt it creates a damaging sense of being watched, and 58 per cent believed it harms morale.
Petra Wilton, Director of Policy and External Affairs at CMI, warned that surveillance “can risk long-term damage to trust, morale and workplace culture.”
“Effective management depends on trust, fairness and confidence,” Wilton added. “If online monitoring is used, organisations should be transparent and openly communicate what is being tracked and the reasons behind it.”
The CMI noted that there is broad agreement on the necessity of clarity: over half of managers (54 per cent) would demand an explanation of what is being tracked. The survey also found that 16 per cent of staff would consider seeking another job if monitoring were introduced without transparency, and 20 per cent would raise concerns with HR.
The report concluded with a caution that reliance on surveillance software could also expose employers to regulatory or legal scrutiny, a risk pointed out by law firm Harper James’ Data Protection team.
