BYOD? Legal risks of employee ‘bring your own device’ policies Presented By: J. Chadwick Hatmaker, Esq. WOOLF, McCLANE, BRIGHT, ALLEN & CARPENTER, PLLC 900 Riverview Tower 900 S. Gay Street Knoxville, Tennessee (865) (865) (fax) Circular 230 Notice: These materials are designed to provide general information. Although prepared by a professional, these materials should not be utilized as a substitute for professional legal advice in specific situations. If legal advice or other expert assistance is required, please consult with an attorney.
BYOD Risks Loss of Confidential Information
Mobile device management software Software can remotely ‘wipe’ employee devices Require employees to sign acknowledgment/policy consenting to the use and acknowledging that some personal information may be lost
BYOD Risks Wage and Hour Issues Potential non-exempt employee overtime liability
Prohibit use for work after hours unless expressly authorized No use for work while on unpaid leave Time worked counted as compensable time
Risks Associated With BYOD Policies Possible minimum wage violation if fees and expenses for device reduce below minimum wage
Reimbursement of device-related fees & expenses Increase pay
Risks Associated With BYOD Policies Discrimination and Harassment
Prohibit use for discrimination/harassment
Risks Associated With BYOD Policies Employee Negligence Respondeat Superior Workers’ Compensation
Prohibit use when driving or operating equipment
Risks Associated With BYOD Policies NLRA Overbroad policies inhibiting “concerted activity”
Clearly specify restricted information/communications Add NLRA disclaimer
BYOD Policies A BYOD policy should state: What devices are permitted Devices may not be synced with other personal devices No unauthorized modifications
BYOD Policies “Remote-wipe” software will be installed Employer not responsible for personal data loss Employee has no expectation of privacy Employer can monitor & keep communications
BYOD Policies Clear expectations for use after hours, on leave BYOD program is a privilege revocable at any time
BYOD Policies Protocols for resignation or termination No device use for discrimination/harassment No device use while driving/operating equipment
BYOD Policies What communications are prohibited contain an NLRA disclaimer Employees must sign, consenting to terms
QUESTIONS
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