Working from home, potentially from employees' own devices, has data protection related consequences that employers need to take into consideration. We have summarised them below:
- Ensure that your employees are aware of your data protection and security policies, and clarify how they apply in practice in the working from home situation;
- Check what your current employee policies sets out on working remotely and Bring Your Own Device practices and amend where needed for situations whereby working remotely for longer periods of time is required;
- Investigate whether there is enough secure equipment (laptops and phones) and remote working software licenses available to accommodate all employees to work from home;
- Inform employees of the need of having a strong and secure internet connection at home;
- Have a business continuity plan if IT services go down and ensure that your IT service desk is available to provide support;
- Ask your insurance provider if an increase of employees working from home impacts your employer liability insurance;
- Adjust reporting and line management procedures if necessary; and
- Provide regular updates to your employees about how you are dealing with the pandemic.
Please contact the DP team (dataprotection@dwf.law) if you would like to know more.
