Brain-scanning technology could study people's thoughts in the office.

Brain-scanning tech could be used to spy on workers

Brain-scanning tech could be used to spy on workers

The Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) claims that neurotechnology - which harvests data from the brain - will become widespread over the course of the next decade.

It is hoped that the tech will help people suffering from complex illnesses and disabilities but experts fear that misuse could put employees at the risk of workplace surveillance.

'Tech Futures: Neurotechnology' is the first ICO report on "neurodata" from the brain and nervous system with workplace monitoring featured as one of the hypothetical future uses of the tech explored in the report.

Stephen Almond, of the ICO, said: "The consequences could be dire if these technologies are developed or are deployed inappropriately."

The warning comes as Elon Musk's company Neuralink is trying to explore new ways to get computers connected to human brains.