Meta Eases Employee Monitoring Plan Following Staff Backlash
Meta Platforms has revised its controversial employee monitoring programme after facing criticism from workers over plans to track computer activity for artificial intelligence training purposes.
According to an internal memo reported by Reuters, the company will now allow employees to temporarily pause data collection for up to 30 minutes at a time. Staff will also be able to request exemptions from the programme under certain circumstances.
The monitoring system, known as the Model Capability Initiative (MCI), was introduced earlier this year as part of Meta’s efforts to improve AI systems designed to assist users with everyday computer-based tasks. The tool records workplace interactions such as keyboard inputs and mouse activity to help train AI models.
When the initiative was first announced in April, Meta said the data would be used solely for AI development and that safeguards had been implemented to protect sensitive information.
However, the programme sparked concern among employees, many of whom questioned the privacy implications of having their workplace activities continuously monitored. Opposition to the initiative grew in recent weeks, with more than 1,500 employees reportedly supporting an internal petition against the policy.
Some staff members also raised concerns about the impact of the software on device performance and internet usage, particularly for employees working remotely.
In the memo, Stephane Kasriel, a vice president within Meta’s Superintelligence Labs division, acknowledged employee feedback and said the company had introduced several improvements to reduce the tool’s effect on laptop battery life and system resources.
Kasriel noted that while Meta remains confident in the privacy protections built into the programme, the company recognised concerns regarding personal data, device performance, and employee control over when monitoring takes place.
The development comes amid broader changes within Meta, which has undertaken significant workforce reductions this year as it increases investment in artificial intelligence. The company has reportedly cut thousands of jobs in 2026 while accelerating efforts to develop advanced AI products and services.
The revised policy is expected to provide employees with greater flexibility while allowing Meta to continue gathering data it considers important for the development of future AI-powered tools.
