Bossware: Is Your Employer Watching Everything You Do?

Have you ever felt like someone’s watching you? It turns out, you might not be paranoid—your boss could be tracking everything you do on your computer or phone.

Welcome to Bossware, a form of mobile device management (MDM) software that allows employers to monitor activity and take control of devices. This isn’t just limited to company-issued equipment—if MDM software is installed on your personal phone or laptop, your employer may see everything you do.

The ethics of workplace surveillance remain a heated debate. Business owners argue that monitoring ensures productivity, especially in remote work environments. “I’ve had employees working remotely who weren’t actually working,” said Stephanie Green, CEO of FG Creative. “I need to know they’re doing their job.”

Publicist Anthony Turk sees both sides. “If your company owns your device, they have every right to monitor it. But if it’s your personal computer or phone, they should have zero access—that’s unethical.”

Experts recommend separating work and personal devices to avoid privacy concerns. If your employer requires MDM software, ensure you understand what’s being tracked—because when it comes to Bossware, big brother may be watching.