In the modern workplace, employers are being held liable for a wider range of employee misconduct. In particular the potential for abuse of email and internet facilities provided at the workplace is virtually limitless and could have severe legal ramifications for employers. Furthermore, the rise of social networking sites such as Facebook and Twitter further exacerbates these problems. The employer’s obligation to provide a safe work environment free from discrimination, harassment, victimisation and bullying extends to the internet and email usage by staff. This update provides an overview of employers areas of risk in regards to employee internet and email usage relating to discrimination and harassment; copyright infringement; and defamation [read more].