I Refuse to Install Work Software on My Personal Phone, I’m Not Trading My Privacy for a Paycheck

People
2 weeks ago
I Refuse to Install Work Software on My Personal Phone, I’m Not Trading My Privacy for a Paycheck

There is a lot we are willing to tolerate while trying to build our careers, but invasion of privacy in the workplace isn’t one of those things, even when it comes with clear and direct communication. One of our readers reached out to share their experience.

This is Darren’s story.

Dear Bright Side,

I’ve recently started a work-from-home job at a fairly well-known company that I had dreamed of working for. But a recent interaction with my boss has me wondering if this is really the right choice for me.

During my training, HR told me to install the company app. I refused. I told them that I would only add apps on devices provided by the company, and they seemed to be fine with it.

A week after my training finished, my manager texted me and said, “Install the company app, or we’ll mark you non-compliant.” I told him that I don’t use my personal phone for work, so I would not be adding the app on it.

He shot back with, “Then maybe this job isn’t for you.” I responded with “Got it” and shut my laptop. I didn’t return to my work for the rest of the day, but that was part of my plan.

The next day, my boss came to the office and froze when he saw me sitting in a meeting with his boss. When she saw him, she called him in as well. Turns out she’d read our message thread and was confused by the demand.

She wanted to “clarify a few things” about his management style. She reminded him that threats were unacceptable and unprofessional, but he countered by saying that he was “just trying to keep metrics consistent.” She told him it was not a good enough reason and asked him to leave.

Once he was gone, she told me that she understood my concerns, but refusing the app could “impact team cohesion.” I said that I’d be happy to get the app, but not on my personal device. If the company was willing to provide a phone for their use, I’d install it immediately.

She said that they didn’t do that, and suddenly the entire argument shifted. It wasn’t about who was right or wrong. It was about whether I should protect my privacy or accept the app so my team doesn’t turn against me.

So, Bright Side, what are your thoughts on this matter? Is my privacy more important than my job? Should I stand my ground or back down?

Regards,
Darren J.

Some advice from our Editorial team.

Ok here's an idea do it and then use your cost of phone and phone bill as a tax write off at the end of the year because it's your work phone now too?! That's what I would do, don't be stupid get that money dummy.
If it's seriously about privacy you can always just buy a burner cheap touch screen phone and use Wi-Fi to access the app you don't really need a phone plan for it, this also could be a write off at the end of the year.

Think the outside the box there's more than one option here and I'm sure after this hiccup they'll appreciate it if you show that you can problem solve.

-
-
Reply

Install the app then mute all of them they don't pay your phone bill they refuse to give you a phone once you clock out your time is yours I was made to do the same thing and then blocked it they still don't realize it

-
-
Reply

What's the big deal ...load the App and stop crying. If it's that big a deal leave. If I was the manager you'd be out the door already.

-
-
Reply

What's the big deal?
Do you really want your employer accessing:
1. Your contacts
2. Your call history - what were you doing making a personal call during work hours?
3. Your search history
4. Your purchase history - why were you doing your grocery shopping during work hours?
Why were you shopping on that site?
5. Your banking
6. Your photos
7. Your location
8. Your usage - Why were you on your phone at 1a.m.? Is that why you didn't come to work yesterday?
Et cetera, et cetera, et cetera.

-
-
Reply

Unfortunately you see this everywhere in the workplace these days. I refuse to do work on my personal phone as well and have also been told it can affect "the team" I also told them the same, then provide me a phone. There are upset with my decision but also know they can't force it. Also, for anyone who does install work apps on their phone, read the fine print. They have the ability to wipe your phone off they deem it a threat or a virus from anywhere gets in and threatens the company. Phone numbers, gone, your kids, girlfriend, special event photos, all gone. Yes, they are legally allowed to wipe your phone.... it's in the fine print. Separate work from home!!!! It's your time and are they paying your phone bill?

-
-
Reply

By the way any app that you have on your phone, any one of those companies at anytime can take control over your phone. The only things stopping them is morality and legality. Lawsuits have been won against companies who expected their employees to open work-related emails on their private phones.

-
-
Reply

No company phone offered, then have the company change the permissions they want, so it doesn't impact your privacy or continue to refuse to install app. You are trying to meet them half way, but if they aren't, look for another job.

-
-
Reply

Actually if I were in your shoes, which I am. I would tell my boss, you don't have to get me a phone, just give me a phone allowance per month and I will be happy to install the app. The company I work for does that.

-
-
Reply

It might have been the dream job but now that you know the company cares nothing about privacy or boundaries, or what privacy they'll ask to violate in the future, hopefully you realize it's not the dream you thought it was and can leave as soon as possible.

As Benjamin Franklin has been quoted as saying.

"Those who would give up essential liberty to purchase a little temporary safety deserve neither liberty nor safety.

Even court's historically won't give a warrant to invade someone's cell phone privacy so hopefully you never have to work with or for anyone that suggests you give up your privacy. They can't ever be trusted.

Good luck. I hope everything works out for you.

-
-
Reply

The courts have not been good on cell phone privacy. If you use face recognition or a fingerprint to log in police can force you to sign in without a warrant. They only need a warrant for a password protected phone. The courts haven't really recognized the volume of information on cell phones.

-
-
Reply

You are absolutely right on your stand. I have refused to use my phone for work related issues, wouldn't let the company publish my phone number for company employees and refused to be photographed for the company website. I am available while I'm at work for any questions regarding work but my immediate supervisor has my phone number and knows he has a 30 minute window to call me after work for any questions. After that I won't discuss work issues, my time is my time . Good for you for standing your ground.

-
-
Reply

Exactly. Boundaries! If that app is so vital, then provide a company phone. No way would I put it on my personal phone.

-
-
Reply

Technically you're correct but no one likes a drama queen. According to you this is a good company and a great opportunity. If it were me I'd solve the problem myself by either downloading the app like everyone else or getting a 2nd phone on $15 per month plan. I definitely wouldn't be walking off the job 1st day or calling my new bosses boss, hr and whatever other mess you're bringing into this on my 2nd day. Honestly sounds like this company is dodging a bullet with you

-
-
Reply

Why is it SO many of you are saying " just get another cheap phone"? If the Company refuses to PROVIDE A PHONE, THEY DON'T GET TO USE YOURS. Them being CHEAP, doesn't mean that ANY employee MUST download their App. Are YOU ALL such pussies?

-
-
Reply
2 weeks ago
This comment is too shy. It's hiding.

You're just an idiot. They do not get to force you to download an app because they wish it. It seems like you're just retarded.

-
-
Reply

It seems to be the norm these days with employers expecting staff to use their personal phones for work and I am with you, it is wrong. I have backed out of some instances where a personal phone is requested and did not hear much push back. It’s too invasive—period.

-
-
Reply

I totally get your concern, as a teacher, I refused to call parents from my personal number. Initially, I just got a cheap "work" phone and eventually a Google number when that was invented. Given that they are texting you on your personal phone, technically, you do use it for work. Ok the other hand, they still can contact you, so not sure why you need to the app. Can you get a cheap work phone? Check your contract to see if this app is a requirement. If you like this job, seriously consider if it's worth losing it for this.

-
-
Reply

I agree about installing company aps on personal phones. Perhaps you could suggest a compromise. Purchase a cheap phone spwcifically for work use. Makes tax time easier cos you can then claim 100% of it on tax. Plus you can ignore it when outside work hours. Good Luck.

-
-
Reply

Just install the app. Jeez you are making a mountain out of something that is the norm.

-
-
Reply

Your 100% wrong. Personal and Work should not mix because if somthing goes wrong your personal phone will be evidence. Do you really want your personal data exposed.

-
-
Reply

I guess you don't mind having your company spy on you and everything that you're doing on your personal phone

-
-
Reply

Norm doesn't make it right. U u want constant access pay for a phone. My phone is only used for calls, texts & the camera. I giv it 0 permissions. They can pay if they want it

-
-
Reply

Stand your ground. Maybe buy a very cheap phone and bill them for it and the monthly bill.

They aren't used to employees standing up for themselves and are worried the rest of the team will join on with you. If they want you to use a phone for work they need to pay/provide it.

-
-
Reply

I would probably just get the cheapest device for that. Had the same situation

-
-
Reply

Keep in mind, to install an app, you do not have to keep an active phone plan. The device can use a home or work Wi-Fi connection.

-
-
Reply

Dear Darren,

Thank you for reaching out and sharing your story with us.

This isn’t really about aapp;p, it’s about boundaries, and the company just showed you how they react when someone enforces one.

You didn’t refuse work, collaboration, or accountability. You offered a perfectly reasonable alternative (a company device) and were immediately met with a threat, then later with social pressure framed as “team cohesion.” That shift matters.

Once leadership reframed the issue as you being the potential problem instead of the policy gap, the risk became long-term. If you cave now, you’ll teach them that your personal resources, privacy, and comfort are negotiable whenever metrics or convenience come up.

The fact that your manager was reprimanded confirms you weren’t wrong, but the fact that no solution was offered confirms they’re hoping you’ll quietly absorb the cost anyway.

If you stay, do so with eyes open. Standing your ground may limit your upward mobility there, but backing down guarantees this won’t be the last line they ask you to cross.

Decide based on whether this “dream company” still feels like a place that respects consent when it’s inconvenient, because this won’t be the last time you’re asked to trade something personal for “team harmony.”

Darren finds himself in a difficult position that might not be so easy to get out of. But in many cases there are team members who might feel the same way he does; they just won’t speak up.

He isn’t the only one with issues in the workplace, though. Another one of our readers shared their experience. You can read their story here: I Refuse to Let My Boss Control Every Minute While He Disappears for Hours.

Comments

Get notifications

Dream job !!!! And they do this to you ....what are your contracted hours 9-5 ? ...stick to your guns ...this is NOT YOUR DREAM JOB !! WHAT OTHER TRICKS WILL THEY GO ON TO PULL. ...CHECK OUT YOUR CONTRACT..START LOOKING ELSEWHERE ..

-
-
Reply

At my very part time job we have to use our phones to log in and out. Also we can if we want do our documentation from it. This is why the company pays 25% of our line bill! Win win for everyone!

-
-
Reply

That’s why I carry an extra phone, a flip phone. Hand it to them and say “show me how”.

-
-
Reply

Depends on the job, the app, the need and reason of the app and the function of the app and what it can do on the phone.

-
-
Reply

Related Reads