[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text dp_text_size=”size-4″]Due to potential security breaches, the Water and Power Development Authority (WAPDA) has implemented a smartphone ban in its offices for middle and lower-level management.
According to details, Secretary WAPDA issued a notification on 14 April stating that it has been decided that only officers with the rank of general manager or higher will be permitted to carry smartphones (Android/iOS) within the office premises.
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The decision was made in light of the current security situation and threat alerts. The general manager (security) has been assigned the responsibility of enforcing this directive. Employees have been instructed to refrain from bringing smartphones to work beginning immediately.
According to the notification, any violation of this directive will result in legal action under the WAPDA Efficiency & Discipline (E&D) Rules 1978. The order, however, does not apply to officers in the Public Relations Department, Protocol Department, Security Department, or WAPDA Secretariat.
WAPDA has expressed concern in another circular about the frequent sharing of official documents on various social media platforms. As a result, all general managers must ensure that their subordinates refrain from engaging in such behaviour in the future. Any violation of these instructions will result in legal action under applicable codes of conduct and cyber laws.
WAPDA employees have spoken out strongly against the smartphone ban in the workplace, calling it an autocratic and absurd decision by management. They’ve labelled it a stupid act.
Management, on the other hand, has stated that this step is critical for maintaining enterprise security and increasing employee productivity. The ban is necessary to prevent the accidental or intentional disclosure of sensitive data via smartphone cameras and microphones.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
