Hey guys, long time reader, first time poster :)
I'm the admin in question here, just thought i'd clarify a few things...
Regardless of the legality of it all, each user agrees to a standard 'computer agreement' when they sign in to their computer, with a signed hardcopy in their HR file... but.. here's some extracts of that agreement:)
"All personal data is to be stored at one central point which shall be provided to the employees by MyCompany Pty Ltd. All personal data stored outside this provided location will be assumed to be of a disposable nature and its integrity can not be guaranteed." -- this wasn't done
"The following activities are strictly prohibited, with no exceptions:"
"Unauthorized copying of copyrighted material including, but not limited to, digitization and distribution of photographs from magazines, books or other copyrighted sources, copyrighted music, and the installation of any copyrighted software for which MyCompany Pty Ltd or the end user does not have an active license is strictly prohibited."
"Violations of the rights of any person or company protected by copyright, trade secret, patent or other intellectual property, or similar laws or regulations, including, but not limited to, the installation or distribution or burning of "pirated" or other software products that are not appropriately licensed for use by MyCompany Pty Ltd."
Note that it doesn't really say anything concrete about legalities, rather 'copyrighted' material - if you want to get picky :P
Oh, and the user in question was standing next to me all while i was doing this, and pointed out certain directories for me to not delete, as they were (legit) personal files.. so under his instruction, i didn't delete them :P
No doubt someone will get picky with what i've said... but eh, IT admins gotta be thick skinned :P