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Pinterest Fires Two Engineers Over Layoff-Tracking Tool

Executives cite improper access to confidential data during an AI-focused restructuring.

Overview

  • Pinterest confirmed it dismissed two engineers after they created or shared scripts used to identify laid-off colleagues, calling the activity a policy and privacy violation.
  • A spokesperson said the scripts pulled confidential information to compile names and locations of dismissed employees after leaders said such details would not be broadly disclosed.
  • Some employees disputed the company's account, saying the method relied on prompts to an internal staff directory rather than newly built custom software.
  • CEO Bill Ready told staff at an all-hands that the behavior crossed into obstructionist territory and suggested employees opposed to the company’s direction should consider leaving.
  • The cuts are part of a restructuring that will eliminate fewer than 15% of roles, reduce office space, and shift resources to AI-focused teams, with completion targeted by September 30.