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Cognizant Implements Strict Employee Monitoring: What You Need to Know

Source: Cognizant moves to monitor employees, laptops will be watched and termed idle after 5 mins of break (2025-11-17)

Cognizant, a leading global IT services provider, is intensifying its employee monitoring practices by deploying advanced tracking tools to ensure productivity. According to recent reports, the company will now mark laptops as 'idle' if there is no keyboard or mouse activity for more than five minutes, signaling a crackdown on unproductive breaks. This move is part of Cognizant’s broader strategy to optimize workforce efficiency amid rising remote work trends and increasing competition in the tech industry. The company plans to gradually roll out this monitoring system using a tool called ProHance, which provides real-time activity tracking and analytics. In addition to the immediate changes, several recent developments highlight the evolving landscape of workplace monitoring and employee rights. For instance, global companies are adopting more sophisticated surveillance technologies, raising questions about privacy and work-life balance. As of late 2025, over 60% of multinational corporations have implemented some form of activity monitoring, with many integrating AI-driven analytics to predict employee engagement and productivity. Furthermore, the rise of remote work has prompted governments in various countries to update labor laws, emphasizing the importance of employee privacy and consent in digital monitoring practices. Recent facts that contextualize Cognizant’s move include: 1. The global remote work market is projected to grow by 20% annually through 2027, increasing reliance on digital monitoring tools. 2. Studies show that 75% of employees are concerned about privacy invasion due to workplace surveillance, prompting companies to balance productivity with ethical considerations. 3. AI-powered monitoring systems now analyze not only activity but also emotional cues, aiming to detect burnout and stress among employees. 4. Several countries, including Germany and France, have introduced legislation requiring explicit employee consent for certain types of digital surveillance. 5. The adoption of productivity tracking tools has been linked to a 15% increase in reported work output, but also to rising employee stress levels and job dissatisfaction in some sectors. This shift in monitoring practices reflects broader trends in digital workplace management, emphasizing efficiency while sparking debates about privacy rights and ethical boundaries. Experts suggest that while such tools can enhance productivity, they must be implemented transparently and with respect for employee autonomy. Companies like Cognizant are at the forefront of this balancing act, leveraging technology to meet business goals without compromising trust. As the workplace continues to evolve in the digital age, understanding the implications of surveillance and fostering a healthy work environment will be crucial for both employers and employees alike.

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