Is the Jig Up for “Mouse Jigglers?”
In an era where remote work has become more common, a new tool for employees has emerged: the “Mouse Jiggler.” This device, designed to simulate mouse movement, ensures that a computer stays active, preventing it from going into sleep mode or appearing “inactive” on employer activity status tracking systems. The recent article from Bloomberg (reposted on The Verge) highlights this trend, focusing on corporate organizations who have adopted this technology as a way of monitoring their employees.
As background, “Mouse Jigglers,” have gained popularity among remote workers who are subject to stringent monitoring systems that track activity based on mouse movements and keyboard activity. The underlying issue is the pressure for employees to appear constantly active during work hours, a demand that has led many to seek technological solutions to maintain an illusion of perpetual availability.
Recently, Wells Fargo terminated more than a dozen employees after investigating claims of their "simulation of keyboard activity creating impression of active work," according to disclosures filed with the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA).
From a practical standpoint, the reliance on mouse movement or keyboard tracking methods can be seen as a symptom of a deeper issue: the lack of effective management strategies for remote work. Instead of fostering a culture of trust and measurable accountability, some companies have resorted to surveillance, which can lead to increased stress and dissatisfaction among employees.
Perhaps a corporate focus on outcome-based, measurable performance metrics - rather than constant activity monitoring - would be more productive for all concerned.
We don’t recommend that our clients go the route of the mouse jiggler. That is a good way to find your employment terminated for cause, and your reputation for integrity tarnished. Rather, we counsel employees on how to have more effective communications and goal-setting experiences with their managers.
As remote work continues to evolve, finding the right balance will be key to ensuring long-term success for both employees and employers.