Equifax used records it collects from companies to fire employees with 2nd jobs (businessinsider.com)

Article summary

Equifax used its employment records database, The Work Number, to investigate and fire dozens of its own employees for working second jobs without approval. The company's investigation, codenamed 'Project Home Alone' and 'Project Page 12', used various methods to identify employees with multiple jobs, including reviewing work histories and activity records. Equifax's use of its own data to monitor employees has raised concerns about privacy and the company's trustworthiness with sensitive information. The incident highlights the growing trend of employers using data and monitoring tools to track employee activity and enforce company policies.

Main themes

• employee monitoring
• data privacy
• employer-employee relations
• work-life balance
• corporate power dynamics
• technology and control

What commenters say

• Some commenters question the legality and ethics of Equifax's actions, citing concerns about employee privacy and the potential for abuse of power.
• Others argue that employers have a right to monitor employee activity and enforce company policies, especially if it affects job performance or involves confidential information.
• The use of The Work Number database to track employee employment history and salary information is seen as a potential threat to employee autonomy and privacy.
• Some commenters express skepticism about the accuracy and reliability of The Work Number database, citing personal experiences with incorrect or incomplete information.
• The incident is seen as part of a broader trend of employers using data and technology to exert control over employees and monitor their activities.
• Some commenters argue that employees should be allowed to work multiple jobs without restriction, as long as it does not affect their primary job performance.
• Others express concern about the potential consequences of Equifax's actions, including the impact on employees who may have been unfairly terminated or had their privacy violated.