Apple is being sued for allegedly monitoring employees’ personal devices and iCloud accounts while restricting discussions on pay and working conditions, according to a report by Reuters. The lawsuit, filed in California state court by Amar Bhakta, a digital advertising employee, claims that the company mandates software on personal devices used for work, granting the company access to private data, including emails, photos, health and smart home information.
Bhakta, employed since 2020, alleges Apple enforced confidentiality policies barring discussions about working conditions, whistleblowing, and even sharing job details on platforms like LinkedIn or podcasts. The complaint argues these practices hinder employee rights, including freedom of speech and mobility within the job market.
Apple denies the claims, stating that they lack merit. A spokesperson noted that employees are trained annually on their rights to discuss workplace conditions and emphasised the company’s focus on product innovation while safeguarding its team’s contributions.
Bhakta’s legal team also represents two women who filed a lawsuit in June, accusing Apple of gender pay disparities. The lawsuit leverages a California law permitting employees to sue on behalf of the state and retain 35% of penalties recovered.
Additionally, the company faces multiple U.S. labor board complaints alleging it discouraged discussions on workplace issues via restrictions on social media and internal apps. Apple has consistently denied any wrongdoing.
(Source: Reuters)
