Yes, you can monitor emails or devices under GDPR and the Data Protection Act 2018, but only if you inform staff upfront and have a legitimate reason, like security or performance checks.
A clear policy—shared with employees—helps avoid privacy breaches, and you should limit what you access to what’s necessary. Legal advice can ensure your monitoring stays within bounds, balancing oversight with employee rights. Hold a quick team briefing to explain the policy and answer questions, building trust. Regularly review what you’re monitoring to ensure it still fits your original purpose and stays legal.
Helpful government guidance is available at: Data protection and your business on GOV.UK.