Ethics in Data Breaches

Ethics in Data Breaches

1. Summary of the Event: Provide a brief overview of the event or situation you’re discussing.,
2. Ethical Implications: Analyze the ethical issues involved using concepts and frameworks from the readings., Consider questions like:
   • How do the actions in the event align or conflict with ethical principles discussed in the course?,
   • What ethical considerations were overlooked or addressed poorly?,
   • What responsibilities do individuals companies or governments have in addressing these issues?
3. Reflection: Based on your analysis, what changes or actions would you recommend to improve the situation, considering the ethical frameworks you’ve studied?

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Summary of the Event:

In 2023, a major social media company suffered a large-scale data breach that exposed the personal information of over 100 million users. The data included email addresses, phone numbers, and private messages. The company failed to detect the breach for weeks and delayed informing the public. This incident sparked widespread criticism over its lack of security and failure to be transparent with users, raising ethical concerns about data protection and corporate accountability.

Ethical Implications:

From a deontological standpoint, the company had a duty to protect user information and communicate truthfully. Delaying notification violated user trust and the principle of honesty. Users had a right to know when their personal data was compromised so they could take protective action.

Using a utilitarian approach, the company’s inaction likely led to greater harm. Had users been informed earlier, they might have avoided scams or identity theft. Instead, the company prioritized its reputation over public well-being.

From the lens of virtue ethics, the organization lacked integrity and responsibility. Ethical leadership requires proactive behavior and transparency, both of which were missing. Moreover, this case highlights broader systemic issues, including weak regulation and insufficient enforcement of data protection standards by governments.

Reflection and Recommendations:

Companies must act ethically not only when required by law but also when entrusted with public data. I recommend:

• Immediate breach disclosure policies,

• Stronger cybersecurity measures,

• Required ethics training for corporate leadership,

• And stricter government regulations.

These actions support ethical frameworks focused on duty, consequence, and character. Addressing these failures directly will help restore public trust and ensure long-term accountability in digital spaces.