Ethics Of Monitoring Networks

Ethics Of Monitoring Networks

Comparing the three types of policies that I have experienced, not every policy will fit all companies.   With the Zero Tolerance policy, only approved websites can be accessed.   Social messaging is not allowed, there are not approved applications installed on systems, and all e-mails are monitored and are not intended for personal use.   If coworkers need access to an unapproved site, they have to wait to get approval from the IT department, slowing up productivity.   The Zero Tolerance policy reduces the company’s legal risk since no offensive materials can be accessed or shared, however, morale can be lowered since employee emails are monitored; giving the impression of lack of trust.
Active Monitoring, on the other hand, could be used with most companies.   Instead of approving certain websites, the company restricts which sites cannot be accessed.   The bandwidth is also limited on streaming media and other network intensive communications.   Websites would be periodically monitored for unapproved applications.   Active Monitoring is more practical than Zero Tolerance increasing employee morale.  
Finally Passive Monitoring has no restrictions.   Documented policy defining appropriate business use exists.   Site verification is logged and is reviewed after the employee is done to ensure there is no policy abuse taking place.   With Passive Monitoring, a company is more at risk to receive harmful viruses, spyware, malware, and coworker are more likely to not be productive due to the lack of restrictions.   A small business maybe more inclined to have this type of policy.
A few factors do come in play when looking at what type of network policy.   As previously mentioned, a small business would more likely have a Passive Monitoring policy.   Active Monitoring would be more practical for any type of business.   It restricts employee access to harmful websites that carry viruses, spyware, and malware.   Zero Tolerance policy would be beneficial to any company, however, it...