I actually think that management needs a thicker skin in such situations. Electronic mail is a freeing-up communications medium. People tend to say things they wouldn't ordinarily put into a memo or letter. They use off-handed comments without realizing they are creating a permanent record. Once a message goes out, hitting the delete key doesn't make it go away, Maatman warns.
Many companies use forensic software that can retrieve deleted messages and monitor every keystroke.
Employees should also be aware of the potential for human error. In December, a lawyer in the UK intending to forward a joke to a colleague hit the wrong button, sending the message into cyberspace with the company's logo attached. Flynn recommends that all companies adopt written policies and provide training for employees outlining what they should and shouldn't do at their computer terminals. To be on the safe side, Flynn advises employees never to use company e-mail to send a really personal message. Compose yourself before you compose your e-mail.