[krypton]

What legal rights does a company have on the email account that it gives to its employees? Can the mails be read/scanned by the company? Can they legally ask you for unlimited access?

[Clay]

All, yes, and yes =)

[petrm]

Evesdroping on employees emails has long been done in the US.

Especially, email client software, such as Lotus Notes, is specifically designed for such purpose.

As a rule, I recommend that you keep all your private stuff out of your employer's emails. They can read it if they want to and they are legally entitled to do so.

[TOOTS]

I agree with Petrm, I've worked for US organisations and have seen too many people been ticked off for personal email abuse, and at extreme ends been given the sack. So keep non worked related stuff at home.

[Katanga]

....and they scan e-mails for any special text, words etc. so be very, very careful. The laws usually err on the side of the employer and most regulators require the companies to keep copies of all of everyone's e-mails.

[Katanga]

....oh and they don't even have to ask.

Also, note that if you are working in an Investment Bank or Securities Company your phone conversations are also being recorded.

Also, all web sites you are accessing would also be recorded and actually some will be blocked.

I can say all the above with certainty becuase I was a Head of IT for a Bank and belive you me they all record all your e-mails/internet browsing/phones etc.

Paranoid ?