Two-thirds of UK employers monitor their staff's internet usage, according to a survey by the Work Foundation.
Sixty-six per cent monitor web site access and 65 per cent watch incoming emails.
About 43 per cent of employers also monitor emails for inappropriate words or content, while 23 per cent said they would dismiss an employee for breaching "netiquette"
policies.
According to the survey, 75 per cent of responding organisations had, or were working on, such policies.
But only 49 per cent of organisations told new employees about the policy as part of their induction programmes.
The Work Foundation's Theo Blackwell said:
"Many employees are unaware of the potential damage a rogue email can do to an organisation, like exposing the firm to defamation, bullying or harassment claims.
"Clearer understanding of what is allowed and what isn't is vital in today's workplace."
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