ITC Lesson 11 Notes | Ethical Issues in IT & the IT Code of Ethics

L11

Lesson overview

Data privacy as a central ethical issue in IT

One of the most important ethical issues in Information Technology is data privacy. Modern systems collect large amounts of personal information from users, such as names, locations, financial records, medical histories, browsing behavior, and private messages. If this information is misused, leaked, or accessed by unauthorized people, it can cause serious harm, including identity theft, fraud, harassment, or loss of trust.

Problems often start with how data is collected and managed. Some applications gather more information than they really need, or fail to clearly explain what they are collecting and why. In other cases, organizations do not secure their systems properly. Weak passwords, poor encryption, or unpatched software can make it easier for attackers to break in and steal sensitive information.

The IT Code of Ethics gives guidelines for how IT professionals should behave when they handle personal data. One key principle is respect for privacy and confidentiality. This means limiting access to personal data only to authorized people, avoiding unnecessary data collection, and never using confidential information for personal gain or curiosity. IT professionals should be open with users about what data is being collected and how it will be used.

Another important principle is integrity. IT workers are expected to use strong security measures, keep systems up to date, and prevent unauthorized access. When a data breach happens, the ethical response includes reporting the incident quickly, cooperating with investigations, and taking steps to prevent the same problem in the future. Hiding or ignoring a breach is considered irresponsible and unethical.

The IT Code of Ethics also emphasizes accountability. Professionals must take responsibility for their actions, keep learning about new threats and privacy laws, and avoid negligence. Data privacy is not just a technical problem. It is a moral duty. By following the Code of Ethics, IT professionals help create a digital environment where users can trust that their personal information is treated with fairness, honesty, and respect.

Key idea

Data privacy is a major ethical challenge in IT. The IT Code of Ethics guides professionals to respect confidentiality, protect systems, be transparent with users, and take responsibility for their actions.

Lesson 11

Quick reviewer

Data privacy and how the IT Code of Ethics responds to it.

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Lesson 11 Cheat Sheet

Short lines you can reuse in ethical-issue questions.

L11 · Reviewer

Ethical issue: data privacy
Organizations collect large amounts of personal data, and misuse or leaks can lead to identity theft, fraud, and loss of trust.
Problem with collection and use
Many users do not fully know what data is collected or why, and some systems gather more information than necessary or fail to secure it properly.
Privacy and confidentiality
The IT Code of Ethics says professionals must protect personal data, limit access to authorized people, and never use it for personal gain.
Integrity and security
IT professionals should prevent unauthorized access, apply strong security controls, and regularly update systems to defend against new threats.
Honesty and transparency
Users should be informed about what data is collected, how it will be used, and what their rights are, so they can give informed consent.
Accountability
When a breach happens, ethical behavior includes reporting it quickly, cooperating with investigations, and fixing the weaknesses that caused it.
One sentence answer
“Data privacy is a key ethical issue in IT, and the IT Code of Ethics addresses it by requiring confidentiality, strong security, transparency, and accountability from professionals.”