How to Keep Slack Active

Whether you’re grabbing coffee, stepping out for a quick break, or just need some screen-free time without someone making you feel guilty about it, here's keep your Slack status to Active and avoid any unwanted attention about your availability.

Purchase a Physical Mouse Jiggler

If installing software on your machine isn't an option, then head over to Amazon and buy a Mouse Mover (here's our top pick for the UK and favorite model in the US).

You'll need to have a physical mouse hooked up to your computer, either through Bluetooth or USB. Don't have one? Pick up this one that's under $10.

Just pop your physical mouse on top of the Mouse Mover, turn it on, then select the movement interval, and you'll be all set. It'll move your physical mouse in line with the interval set to simulate mouse movement.

Install Mouse Jiggler Software

Software like Jiggler for Mac and MouseJiggler for Windows can be used to subtly move the mouse cursor every so often to simulate computer usage.

This is the most effective way to keep Slack active, but of course is not a viable solution for those using a company-issued machine with limitations on the software that can be installed.

This also shouldn't be considered on hardware that uses desktop management software as your employer will be able to see that you've installed the software. But if you're using your own machine, then look no further.

Some employers install productivity measuring software on your computer to determine interaction and engagement time with certain pieces of software, and can monitor screens at the touch of the button, so proceed with caution and at your own risk.

Connect a Physical Mouse Jiggler to a power brick instead of the USB port on your computer if you want to avoid possible hardware detection.

A Word of Warning

Test Some Software Tricks

There are some other things you can try to keep Slack active, including opening up a PowerPoint in Presentation Mode or a YouTube video in full screen.

Keep in mind that some employers use productivity measuring software that tracks how long employees are using certain tools, so having a YouTube Video open for an extended duration may not be the best idea.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Mouse Jiggler?

A mouse jiggler is a device or software that prevents a computer from going to sleep or locking due to inactivity. It “jiggles” or slightly moves the cursor periodically to simulate activity, tricking the computer into thinking it’s in use.

Can Employers Detect a Mouse Jiggler?

Some employers may be able to detect the use of a mouse jiggler, depending on the type and sophistication of the monitoring tools they use -- including:

Hardware Detection

Hardware-based mouse jigglers, especially the USB ones, might be detected by some endpoint management or security software that logs USB device connections. If the employer has strict monitoring policies, they might notice an unusual USB device being used.

Software Monitoring

Some companies use software that can track not only mouse movements but also patterns of interaction, including pauses and keystrokes. If the software detects unusual or repetitive mouse movements without corresponding keyboard activity, it might flag this as suspicious.

Activity/Productivity Analysis

Advanced monitoring systems analyze activity patterns. They might detect if there is a consistent pattern of movement every few seconds without any variation, which doesn’t align with typical human interaction.