The Italian Data Protection Authority (Garante) has imposed an immediate ban on Amazon Italy Logistica srl from processing personal data concerning more than 1,800 employees at their Passo Corese facility. The prohibition arises from findings that the company systematically collected sensitive information, such as health conditions and family issues, returning from absences, and linked the data to their payroll system. This stark measure underscores the regulatory scrutiny the tech giant faces in relation to employee privacy rights.

The investigation revealed that Amazon collected this information continuously throughout the employment duration, even retaining it for up to ten years after termination. This was done through a platform that was systematically involved in employee data recording without adequate transparency or consent. The decision will also extend to similar practices at other Amazon locations in Italy, marking a significant moment for employee rights amid increasing concerns over privacy and data protection.

This intervention by the Garante highlights the growing tension between large corporations and regulatory bodies concerning data protection. With technology firms increasingly under the microscope for how they handle personal data, this case could lead to heightened scrutiny for Amazon and potentially influence similar regulations across Europe regarding employee privacy, bolstering workers' rights within the workplace.