Digital Surveillance of Workers: Tools, Uses, and Stakeholder Perspectives

What GAO Found

GAO reviewed 217 public comments submitted by 211 stakeholders—including workers, advocacy organizations, unions, researchers, technology developers, and trade associations—to the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP) regarding the use of automated digital surveillance tools to monitor workers and the effects of that surveillance on workers. Stakeholders submitted these comments from May to June 2023.

Stakeholders commented on:

• Tools employers use. Stakeholders most frequently mentioned that the digital surveillance tools employers use include cameras and microphones, computer monitoring software, geolocation, tracking applications, and devices worn by workers. These tools allow employers to track workers' productivity and efficiency, performance, safety and health, and security, as well as monitor their activities, location, and body movements.
• How productivity is affected. Stakeholders offered differing views on how digital surveillance tools affect worker productivity. While some commented that digital surveillance either increased or reduced worker productivity, others said it may not accurately measure productivity.
• Workers' relationships with employers. Stakeholders noted that digital surveillance by employers may create a sense of distrust among workers, making them feel like they are constantly being watched, and leading to a decline in worker productivity and morale. Additionally, they commented that it may deter workers from unionizing, as employers may use the collected data to detect and deter labor organizing and union activity.
• Effects on workers' well-being. Stakeholders' comments were mixed regarding the effects of digital surveillance on worker well-being. Some stakeholders commented that it improves workplace security and prevents illness, such as tracking worker health with a heat stress monitor. Others commented that it negatively impacts workers' mental health by increasing their stress levels, anxiety, depression, and fear.
• Concerns about privacy. Stakeholders commented that they were unaware of how employers used workers' data, and expressed concern that these tools can monitor workers digital information while they are at home through their personal devices or social media activity.
• Concerns about potential discrimination or bias. Stakeholders commented that digital surveillance can lead to potential discrimination or bias against certain groups of workers. For example, stakeholders commented that such surveillance could lead to potential discrimination or bias toward workers with disabilities, particularly in instances where productivity monitoring does not account for individual needs for more time to complete tasks.

Why GAO Did This Study

A range of digital surveillance tools have been developed, and employers are increasingly using them to monitor their workers' activities in a range of jobs from trucking and warehousing to office work and healthcare.

GAO analyzed public comments submitted to the OSTP in response to a request for information regarding experiences with automated digital worker surveillance. This report summarizes the perspectives of various stakeholders who submitted comments, including workers, advocacy organizations, unions, researchers, technology developers, and trade associations.

This is the first of two reports on the digital surveillance of workers. It summarizes 217 public comments submitted to OSTP's request for information regarding use of automated digital surveillance tools to monitor workers and the effects of such surveillance on workers. The second report will incorporate stakeholder interviews and a literature search to enhance the information related the uses and impacts of digital surveillance. Additionally, it will address how federal agencies oversee employers' use of digital surveillance technology.

For more information, contact Thomas Costa at (202) 512-4769 or CostaT@gao.gov.