Time theft

Time theft at work: definition and prevention

What is time theft?

Time theft refers to situations where an employee is paid for hours not actually worked, whether intentionally or unintentionally. This can include extended breaks, personal activities during work hours, or falsified timesheets. Time theft can lead to significant costs for a company, especially in sectors where accurate time tracking is critical, such as construction.

Common causes of time theft

• Lack of supervision: Poor oversight of work hours can open the door to abuse.
• Timesheet falsification: Employees may report hours they did not work, whether on paper or digital timesheets.
• Inappropriate use of digital devices: Social media or other online distractions can reduce productivity.

Preventing time theft at work

• Use of digital timesheets: Tools such as online timesheets or employee time tracking apps enable accurate and automated monitoring.
• Implementation of geolocation systems: Employee geolocation ensures that staff are present at the worksite during the indicated hours.
• Clear policies: Strict rules regarding breaks, device usage, and working hours should be established and clearly communicated.
• Automation: By using a dispatching software, businesses can reduce human error and the risk of fraud.

FAQ on time theft

How can time theft be detected in a company?

Detecting time theft involves analyzing discrepancies between reported hours and actual activities. Modern digital tools provide detailed reports to facilitate this analysis.

What are the financial impacts of time theft?

Time theft raises operational costs and reduces profitability. It can also harm team morale if abuses are perceived to be tolerated.

What technological tools can help prevent time theft?

Solutions such as work schedule management systems or apps that integrate timesheets and geolocation are ideal for preventing this issue.