Fired for Dancing on TikTok While on Sick Leave: Court Sides with Employer

In a recent case in Spain, a woman on medical leave for lumbago was fired after her employer discovered videos of her dancing on TikTok. The videos, which went viral, showed her engaging in activities seemingly incompatible with her reported condition. The court ultimately ruled in favor of the employer, highlighting the potential risks of social media activity during sick leave. "It's a cautionary tale," says JuanmaLorente_Laboralista, a labor lawyer who discusses the case in a recent video. "Employees should be mindful of their online presence during medical leave." The case raises questions about the balance between an employee's right to privacy and an employer's need to verify claims of disability. While the woman argued her dancing was not evidence of malingering, the court determined her actions were inconsistent with her reported limitations. The ruling underscores the importance of responsible social media use, particularly for those on medical leave. The outcome serves as a reminder for both employers and employees to carefully consider the implications of online activity in the workplace.