Law.com Subscribers SAVE 30%
Call 855-808-4530 or email [email protected] to receive your discount on a new subscription.
Emojis in the Workplace: Innocent Fun or Discovery Hazard?
In today's digital age, emojis have become ubiquitous in our communications. These tiny pictorial symbols add depth and emotion to our messages, making conversations more expressive and engaging. However, their meanings may vary based on cultural context, personal interpretation or even variations in appearance on different platforms and devices. What one person perceives as a friendly gesture might be seen as sarcasm or aggression by another. And what may be viewed on one device as a chocolate chip cookie may look like a saltine cracker on another. See, "Meet a guy who makes a living translating emojis," CNBC, (July 2017). This ambiguity can complicate legal discovery when trying to establish the true intent behind a message.
Not only do we increasingly rely on emojis in our daily interactions, but emoji usage in business messages is increasing. According to a global survey conducted by Statista in June 2022, 53% of hybrid office workers reported that they usually included emojis when messaging colleagues and 30% of office workers used emojis when communicating with their boss. See, "Hybrid office workers on using emojis when communicating with colleagues worldwide as of June 2022," Statistica. As a result of increasing use, emojis have become part of the discovery landscape and on occasion have taken center stage in high-profile legal proceedings.
Emojis can be equally troublesome in any type of business legal case. How are your employees using emojis in text messaging? Awareness can be an important part of risk reduction. We have compiled here a few case law examples where the use of emojis in business communications had surprising legal ramifications. Emoji-related claims are on the rise, and the examples below illustrate how emojis have complicated cases in securities fraud, hostile work environment, and contract negotiations.
This premium content is locked for Entertainment Law & Finance subscribers only
ENJOY UNLIMITED ACCESS TO THE SINGLE SOURCE OF OBJECTIVE LEGAL ANALYSIS, PRACTICAL INSIGHTS, AND NEWS IN ENTERTAINMENT LAW.
- Stay current on the latest information, rulings, regulations, and trends
- Includes practical, must-have information on copyrights, royalties, AI, and more
- Tap into expert guidance from top entertainment lawyers and experts
Already a have an account? Sign In Now Log In Now
For enterprise-wide or corporate acess, please contact Customer Service at [email protected] or 877-256-2473
Bonus Content: How Emerging Technologies Are Impacting IP: A Chat With Legalweek Speaker Ryan Phelan
A Q&A with conference speaker Ryan Phelan, a partner at Marshall, Gerstein & Borun and founder and moderator of legal blog PatentNext, to discuss how courts and jurisdictions are handling novel technologies, the copyrightability of AI-assisted art, and more.
Overview of Regulatory Guidance Governing the Use of AI Systems In the Workplace
Businesses have long embraced the use of computer technology in the workplace as a means of improving efficiency and productivity of their operations. In recent years, businesses have incorporated artificial intelligence and other automated and algorithmic technologies into their computer systems. This article provides an overview of the federal regulatory guidance and the state and local rules in place so far and suggests ways in which employers may wish to address these developments with policies and practices to reduce legal risk.
Is Google Search Dead? How AI Is Reshaping Search and SEO
This two-part article dives into the massive shifts AI is bringing to Google Search and SEO and why traditional searches are no longer part of the solution for marketers. It’s not theoretical, it’s happening, and firms that adapt will come out ahead.
While Federal Legislation Flounders, State Privacy Laws for Children and Teens Gain Momentum
For decades, the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act has been the only law to expressly address privacy for minors’ information other than student data. In the absence of more robust federal requirements, states are stepping in to regulate not only the processing of all minors’ data, but also online platforms used by teens and children.
Revolutionizing Workplace Design: A Perspective from Gray Reed
In an era where the workplace is constantly evolving, law firms face unique challenges and opportunities in facilities management, real estate, and design. Across the industry, firms are reevaluating their office spaces to adapt to hybrid work models, prioritize collaboration, and enhance employee experience. Trends such as flexible seating, technology-driven planning, and the creation of multifunctional spaces are shaping the future of law firm offices.