2 weeks Ago By Waquar Haider
California Apple employee Amar Bhakta has initiated legal action against Apple, alleging various labor law infringements. He accuses the Cupertino-based corporation of stifling employee expression, violating privacy through surveillance, and improperly reclaiming earned wages. Also Read: Samsung smart glasses set to debut in January, software unveiling this month; Report š Big news in tech! Apple faces lawsuit claiming privacy, free speech violations.
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com/o9EcnVVJHM ā Yogi Liman (@yogiliman) December 3, 2024 Bhakta's lawsuit follows an incident where Apple barred him from discussing his work experiences on podcasts and mandated the removal of details regarding his "working conditions and work experiences" from his LinkedIn profile. He contends that Apple's policies restrict employees from effectively articulating their job roles, achievements, and professional development on platforms like LinkedIn, thereby impairing their job search efforts, reports MacRumors. Additionally, Bhakta asserts that Apple employees are forbidden from sharing the skills, knowledge, and experiences acquired during their tenure at Apple with future employers, and they are also prohibited from discussing workplace issues such as harassment, discrimination, or unfair treatment with colleagues or outsiders.
Employees are required to utilize Apple devices, software, and services, which reportedly "collect and utilize valuable personal data" during non-working hours. The lawsuit claims that employees must consent to physical, video, and electronic surveillance by Apple, which retains the authority to inspect both Apple and non-Apple devices, as well as other property, while employees are on "company premises," including home offices. The Apple work environment is characterized as a "prison yard" for employees, subjected to "Apple's all-seeing eye" both during and outside of work hours.
The lawsuit also challenges Apple's stipulation that employees must use Apple collaboration tools linked to an iCloud account, often a personal one. Bhakta notes that when given the option to use either an Apple-owned iPhone or his personal iPhone for work, he opted for his personal device. Subsequently, Apple installed an eSIM and VPN on his phone and required him to use his personal iCloud account for collaboration with colleagues.
He asserts that Apple has compelled him to remain a loyal customer and that he is obligated to continue supporting the company. Bhakta joined Apple in July 2020 in the role of Digital Ad Tech/Operations Manager, where he was mandated to sign documents outlining the Apple policies referenced in the lawsuit. Apple faces lawsuit claiming privacy, free speech violations https://t.
co/quXPJepMLm ā Tech in Asia (@techinasia) December 3, 2024 The legal action seeks compensation for breaches of the California Labor Code, along with "suitable injunctive relief" to safeguard California Apple employees from potential future infractions. Also Read: Will Appleās 2026 foldable iPhone reshape the foldable market?.
