Wells Fargo Fires Workers for Faking Keyboard Activity

Wells Fargo recently dismissed over a dozen employees for allegedly simulating keyboard activity to create the illusion of active work. The firings were a result of an investigation into claims of "simulation of keyboard activity creating impression of active work," as reported in a filing cited by Bloomberg News. The terminations were reported in disclosures filed with the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA), which oversees broker-dealers in the U.S.

• Wells Fargo holds employees to the highest standards and does not tolerate unethical behavior
• The workers were all in the wealth and investment management division of Wells Fargo
• The firings come as many employees remain remote or in hybrid roles following the pandemic

The affected employees were reportedly using devices such as "mouse movers" or "mouse jigglers" to trick activity-tracking software used by their employers. These devices keep cursors jiggling on screen to mimic mouse movement, making it appear that a worker is active at their computer. Wells Fargo has since required its workers to return to the office under a hybrid model, as noted by Bloomberg. The firings serve as a reminder that unethical behavior and the use of such devices to deceive employers will not be tolerated.