Internet time theft is a type of cybercrime that involves an employee or a group of employees stealing time from their employer by engaging in non-work-related activities during work hours while using company-owned internet resources. This type of cybercrime can be costly for businesses as it can reduce productivity, waste resources, and negatively impact the company's bottom line. 
In this article, we will discuss the types of activities that constitute internet time theft, why it is a serious problem for businesses, and what employers can do to prevent it.

Types of Internet Time Theft

Internet time theft can take many forms, including:
  • Social media use: Spending excessive amounts of time on social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
  • Personal email use: Sending and receiving personal emails during work hours.
  • Online shopping: Using company-owned computers and internet resources to shop online during work hours.
  • Online gaming: Playing online games during work hours.
  • Streaming videos: Watching videos or streaming music during work hours.

Why Internet Time Theft is a Serious Problem

Internet time theft can have serious consequences for businesses. Here are some of the ways that it can negatively impact the company:
  • Reduced productivity: When employees spend time on non-work-related activities, they are not productive, and their work output suffers.
  • Wasted resources: Internet time theft can consume bandwidth, storage, and other resources that the company pays for, resulting in additional expenses.
  • Security risks: Visiting unauthorized or potentially harmful websites can lead to malware infections, phishing attacks, or data breaches, which can compromise sensitive company information.
  • Loss of revenue: Reduced productivity and wasted resources can lead to lower revenue for the company.

How to Prevent Internet Time Theft

Here are some steps that employers can take to prevent internet time theft:
  • Establish clear policies: Create clear policies regarding acceptable internet use during work hours, and communicate these policies to all employees.
  • Use internet filters: Use internet filters and blocking software to prevent employees from accessing unauthorized websites.
  • Monitor internet activity: Monitor internet activity to detect and address any instances of internet time theft.
  • Educate employees: Educate employees on the importance of responsible internet use and the potential consequences of internet time theft.
  • Provide breaks: Provide regular breaks throughout the workday to allow employees to take a break and engage in personal activities.

        In conclusion, internet time theft is a serious problem that can have negative consequences for businesses. By establishing clear policies, using internet filters, monitoring internet activity, educating employees, and providing breaks, employers can take steps to prevent internet time theft and ensure that employees are using company-owned internet resources responsibly.