How has cyber technology created opportunities for workplace deviance?

Workplace Deviance is not a new concept to the world. However, in the past thirty years, technology has advanced at an astronomical rate, allowing many new forms of workplace deviance to occur. Let us look at a couple examples of cyber-aided workplace deviance.

Time Theft

Time theft is when an employee is getting paid for time on the job, but deliberately not doing work. When internet and workstation made their way to most offices in the workplace, it became much easier to waste time without being obvious about it. Workers now have the freedom to alt-tab to a browser window that has nothing to do with work, and browse the internet for however long they feel they can get away with it.

Unauthorized File Sharing

With the extinction of metal file cabinets and folders filled with forms, it is much easier for employees to share files to unauthorized recipients. This happens both on accident, and purposefully. Whether sharing with other companies, friends, or sending it over an unsecured connection to a personal device, it can all happen at the press of a button.

Interpersonal Conflict

Instant messaging within an organizations software suite has allowed a new form of “water fountain talk” to take place. These conversations can be on the organization’s software, or, more often, from employee’s personal devices. These conversations can be degrading to other coworkers, bullying, and in general, a breeding ground for ill-content and divisive mentalities.