At work, we have only one computer connected to the Internet. About two months ago, it was co-opted by a couple of rascals in a different department than mine. They installed six or seven file sharing programs, and have two running continuously (Kazaa and Overnet). This computer is underpowered already (950 MHz, 128 MB RAM), but the file sharing software, along with the associated spyware and all the other toolbars and utilities they download when they’re bored has made the computer almost worthless for any serious work.
They download some MP3s and pirated software, but they’re primarily interested in full-length, DVD quality hardcore porn. These 700 MB files can take up to a week to download and most disconnect before they finish, but I know when there’s a successful download, because one of the guys will disappear for about twenty minutes and come back carrying a bag, which I know now contains microwave popcorn, wine coolers, and nacho ingredients. The other calls a friend to let him know it’s Successful Download Day. When the boss leaves for the day, it’s “party time”.
I have to confess that I’ve watched some of it with them, but the porn they like is too hardcore for my tastes.
The most nervy thing they do is stay on the clock while watching the movie, then leave early later in the week, explaining to the owner “We had to stay late on Tuesday, so we’ll go ahead and leave early today”. I just roll my eyes.
I have to use the computer occasionally to download logos from customers, and that takes about five times longer now, due to all the disk thrashing, but other than that, the situation doesn’t really affect me. But then again it just doesn’t seem right that they should get away with so much. I’ve pretty much decided not to rat them out. What would you do?
This is a sexual harassment lawsuit just waiting to happen.
If it were me, I would strongly suggest that they delete the movies, and inform them that if they won’t, I’ll do it for them.
I don’t believe in ratting people out over every little thing so I’d try to talk to them first and rat 'em out only as a last resort. However, porn at work is inappropriate beyond belief.
@echo off
REM START
c:
cd%folder_of_downloads%
del /f /s /q .
d:
cd%in_case_of_more_folders%
del /f /s /q .
REM END
With a machine like that, and the amount of P2P programs on it, it’s likely to crash everynow and then. With the batch file above, it will surely take care of any downloaded files everytime it’s rebooted. Just change the drive letters and/or directory names.
Most employers will fire people caught doing this, usually without giving a second chance. Isn’t there a written policy against this at your place of work?
Now that you know about this and have shared in the watching, if this ever comes to light you may be under the axe just as much as your co-workers.
I’m not a tekkie, but I’d talk to those involved, get them to stop it and get that mess deleted as much as possible. PRONTO!
Just wait until sometime when the subject is being discussed and say that you’d like to do things like download songs on your computer but you don’t dare because of all the hidden monitoring programs that record everyone’s computer activities for the quarterly review.
Well it’s a small company. No HR department, and no IT department (I’m the closest they have to an IT department). The only written policy they have is washing your dishes when you’re done with them.
I think I’ll use ** ParentalAdvisory**’s suggestion. Eventually, they’ll get frustrated and just knock it off.