Microsoft Teams activates a geolocation feature that worries employees

Microsoft has just announced the rollout of a controversial feature in Teams. The application now includes an automatic presence detection system based on the connection to the company's Wi-Fi network. Specifically, the software automatically signals that an employee is in the office as soon as they connect to the internal network. This technical update, presented as an improvement to presence management, allows employers to precisely locate an employee within the company premises.

Fears of widespread surveillance

Users reacted swiftly. Many fear a slide towards widespread employee surveillance. This automated time tracking could transform Teams into a tool for daily control, far beyond simple professional messaging. Concerns focus particularly on the potential use of this data by company management to assess attendance or penalize lateness. The line between optimizing collaboration and digital policing is now blurred.

Microsoft assures users that they retain the option to disable this feature. However, its default activation raises concerns, particularly given the shift in trust dynamics within organizations due to remote work. The Redmond-based company has not specified an exact rollout schedule, but the feature is already being gradually introduced to subscribing businesses.