But use of a company email system may also create detailed electronic records that disclose more information than was previously available concerning an employee's activities. An email address may belong to a group. Because of the absence of the restraint provided by face to face confrontations, electronic messages can convey intense emotions. On the other hand, asynchronous messaging allows reflection and research before a message is sent. Use of company email systems from remote locations may create records of company activities that are not stored on equipment owned by the company.
Computer viruses can spread through electronic messaging systems.
The use of IDs and passwords creates an expectation of privacy. System administration personnel with high security clearances generally need, and generally have, access to private electronic communications. Most email and other electronic communications systems now link to other systems outside the company. Some companies provide access to and use of their email systems to customers and suppliers who are not employees of the company. This may pose special security risks or trigger special duties under laws governing those who provide electronic communications services to the public.