Tech company Apple has been accused of illegally spying on its employees through their devices and iCloud accounts. Employee Amar Bhakta, who works in the digital advertising department of the company, has made this allegation by filing a lawsuit in California on Sunday (December 2).
Amar has claimed that Apple demands employees to give up their right to privacy as a condition of their employment. The lawsuit also alleges that Apple requires 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 for work. This software allows Apple to access certain apps on employees' personal devices
A prison for Apple ecosystem employees
The lawsuit claimed that the Apple ecosystem is not a walled garden for employees. This is a prison yard. A panopticon where employees remain under Apple's surveillance whether they are on duty or not. Amar says that Apple spies on the personal data of employees.
According to media reports, Apple's policy states that any data related to an employee's personal account while using their personal device is subject to the company's search. This includes emails, photos, videos, notes and other things.
Amar Bhakta also alleged in the lawsuit that Apple restricts the speech of employees by not allowing them to talk about their working conditions and pay. The company even bans the political activities of its employees.
Apple rejected all the allegations
According to media reports, Apple issued a statement saying that the claims made in the lawsuit have no merit. Company spokesperson Josh Rosenstock said – At Apple, we focus on providing the best products and services in the world. We work to protect the innovations our teams create for our customers.
Every employee has the right to discuss their salary, working hours and conditions and this is part of the business conduct policy. We train all employees about this every year. We completely disagree with this claim and it has no substance.
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