George,

Unfortunately, personal use of the Internet during work hours is an increasing problem for employers. As long as the employer has a clear policy regarding Internet use, I do not see monitoring of personal Internet time while on the job any different from checking over long distance bills or a supervisor periodically walking by someone's desk to see if they are doing what they are paid to do.

The truth of the matter is that employers have no responsibility to allow employees to use their work ISP accounts for personal use and, if employees do not wish to be monitored, then they should get a personal ISP account at home.

Linda Martin (electronic mail, May 21, 2001).