Microsoft "planning spy software for offices"

16 Jan 08

Linked to their computers by wireless sensors, office workers could have their blood pressure, body temperature, heart rate and facial expression monitored by bosses throughout the day.

According to the patent application, seen by The Times, the system could automatically detect frustration or stress in the user and offer help accordingly.

The newspaper reported that “heart rate, galvanic skin response, EMG, brain signals, respiration rate, body temperature, movement facial movements, facial expressions and blood pressure”, could all be picked up by the wireless sensors.

This is thought to be the first time such monitoring technology, usually reserved for pilots, firefighters and NASA astronauts, has been suggested for use in conventional workplaces.

Critics, including the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) and unions, told the paper that the system has the potential to take the idea of monitoring people at work “to a new level”.

Hugh Tomlinson QC, an expert on data protection law at Matrix Chambers, said, “This system involves intrusion into every single aspect of the lives of the employees. It raises very serious privacy issues.”

The ICO said, “Imposing this level of intrusion on employees could only be justified in exceptional circumstances.”

Patent lawyers said the application could be granted within a year, The Times reported.

Microsoft said, “We have over 7,000 patents worldwide and we are proud of the quality of these patents and the innovations they represent.

“As a general practice, we do not typically comment on pending patent applications because claims made in the application may be modified through the approval process.”

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