Cyber technology has undeniably revolutionized the modern workplace, offering numerous benefits such as increased productivity, remote work capabilities, and streamlined communication. However, it has also created opportunities for workplace deviance, which encompasses various unethical or harmful behaviors that can occur in a professional setting. This phenomenon can be attributed to the ease with which individuals can exploit the digital realm, often in ways that would have been much more challenging in a pre-digital era.
Firstly, the anonymity provided by cyber technology allows employees to engage in deviant behaviors with reduced fear of detection (Dedeaux, 2019). In an online environment, individuals can hide behind pseudonyms or fake profiles, making it difficult to trace their actions back to them. This anonymity encourages behaviors such as cyberbullying, harassment, or spreading false information, which may not have been as prevalent in traditional workplaces (Keskin et al., 2016).
Secondly, the use of company technology and networks presents opportunities for data theft and espionage (Grimmick, 2022). Employees with access to sensitive information may engage in cyber espionage, selling company secrets to competitors or external parties. The digital nature of this act makes it difficult to trace and prosecute, as cybercriminals often leave minimal traces of their activities (Grimmick, 2022).
Moreover, the blurring of personal and professional life in the digital age has opened up avenues for activities like time theft and procrastination. With the constant connectivity enabled by smartphones and remote work arrangements, employees may be tempted to engage in personal online activities during work hours, reducing their productivity and diverting company resources for personal gain (Keskin et al., 2016).
In addition, cyber technology has created opportunities for financial fraud within organizations (Wellisz, 2016). Employees with knowledge of financial systems can manipulate digital records and transactions to embezzle funds or engage in other fraudulent financial activities. The digital nature of these transactions can make it challenging to detect such fraud until substantial damage has already been done.
Lastly, the proliferation of social media platforms and the easy dissemination of information online have given rise to reputation-damaging behaviors within the workplace (Dedeaux, 2019). Employees may engage in spreading rumors, negative reviews, or defamation online, tarnishing the reputation of colleagues, superiors, or the company itself.
In conclusion, while cyber technology has brought numerous advantages to the modern workplace, it has also created opportunities for various forms of workplace deviance. Anonymity, data theft, time theft, financial fraud, and reputation-damaging behaviors are just a few examples of how individuals can exploit the digital realm for their own gain or to engage in unethical practices. Employers must be vigilant in monitoring and addressing such deviant behaviors to maintain a healthy and ethical work environment.
References:
Dedeaux, J. (2019). Internet Overuse and its Impact on Deviant Behavior and Attitudes [Web]. Department of Psychology and the faculty of the Graduate School of Wichita State University.
Grimmick, R. (2022, June 20). What is Cyber Espionage? Complete Guide with Protection Tips. Varonis. https://www.varonis.com/blog/what-is-cyber-espionage
Keskin, H., Akgün, A. E., Ayar, H., & Kayman, Ş. S. (2016). Cyberbullying victimization, counterproductive work behaviours and emotional intelligence at workplace. Procedia – Social and Behavioral Sciences, 235, 281–287. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sbspro.2016.11.031
Wellisz, C. (2016, August 30). The Dark Side of Technology — Finance & Development, September 2016. https://www.imf.org/external/pubs/ft/fandd/2016/09/wellisz.htm