LECTURE NOTE ONE

Technology is no longer a supplement in our lives — it’s the driving force behind our thought
processes and the decisions that we make. As the influence of information technology continues
to grow, the ethical issues in this field continue to become more complex. Knowing the
leading ethical issues in information technology and the best practices to use when developing,
implementing and using technology can help you prepare for a successful and responsible career
in this field.

Defining Ethics in Information Technology

Ethics in information technology refers to the moral principles that guide the behavior of people
who interact with technology as well as the organizations that develop and implement
technology. In the information technology field, each digital advancement introduces new ethical
challenges. As a result, IT professionals must rely on ethical frameworks to address these
complexities.

Key Ethical Principles in IT

Across the IT field, there are several key ethical principles that guide responsible practices in
information technology. According to the Association for Computing Machinery, the core ethical
principles that anchor the IT field include:

 Honesty — Information technology professionals are required to be honest and

transparent as they work to develop technology. They need to be clear about the purpose
of the technology and the impact that this technology can and will have on society.
 Integrity — Information technology professionals must act with integrity, prioritizing
responsible decision-making at every stage of technology development.
 Confidentiality — In some cases, developments must be kept confidential, and IT
professionals must be willing and able to maintain that sense of confidentiality.
 Accountability — Information technology experts must be willing to take accountability
for their actions, particularly when acknowledging the moral implications of new and
advanced technology.
 Respect for Intellectual Property — Information technology professionals must respect
intellectual property as they develop new and advanced technology, especially if that
technology is going to expand access to intellectual property.

Why Are Ethics Important in Information Technology?

Information technology often feels like a stark and barren landscape, one defined by
programming code and endless machines. In reality, however, information technology is
embedded in the human experience. The ethical issues in information technology will impact
individuals, organizations and society as a whole. Navigating ethical dilemmas with transparency
and honesty can help information technology professionals build trust, promote fairness and
ensure the long-term benefits of technology.

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Exploring the Ethical Landscape of IT

The ethical landscape of information technology is both dynamic and complex. There are
foundational ethical issues that transcend all types of information technology, as well as new and
emerging dilemmas that accompany any technological advancement. For example, recent
advances in artificial intelligence and machine learning have ushered in a new era of ethical
concerns, requiring information technology professionals to reevaluate their ethical decision-
making frameworks. The ethical implications of information technology impact individuals,
organizations and society, highlighting the importance of making responsible decisions in the
digital era.

Privacy and Data Protection

Data privacy is the expectation of consumers, with most people and organizations trusting that
the technology they use each day is equipped with the security features needed to protect them.
That said, in reality, comprehensive data protection is difficult to achieve, requiring information
technology professionals to have an in-depth understanding of the ethical implications of
collecting, storing and using personal data.

Data privacy refers to collection, use and access of data, as well as the cost associated with
mitigating a data breach. ISACA highlights that IT professionals can enhance data privacy and
security by using both technical and social solutions. These solutions address issues like
informed consent, data breaches, surveillance, and the responsible use of personal information.

Cybersecurity and Hacking

Information technology professionals who specialize in cybersecurity and hacking have to face
complex, one-of-a-kind ethical dilemmas on a regular basis to protect data privacy and preserve
trust. IT professionals as well as organizations have an obligation to protect against cyberattacks
and data breaches, particularly given the vast amount of personal and financial data stored
online. Confidentiality and privacy is a key ethical concern in cybersecurity, as data breaches and
hacks can compromise pivotal data, putting the security of individuals and organizations at risk.

Artificial Intelligence and Automation

Artificial intelligence is perhaps the most buzz-worthy new technology available, with
organizations of all sizes and across all industries beginning to discover the power of automated
technology. However, due to the nature of AI technology, there are many intense and complex
ethical issues to consider.

Some of the primary ethical challenges associated with AI technology include:

 Bias within AI algorithms. AI is particularly vulnerable to inserted bias, largely because

AI algorithms are created from historic data that may have been embedded with inherent
bias.

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  Accuracy within AI-based decisions. As more and more organizations begin to rely on
AI-based decision-making, it’s important to keep in mind that AI can and does rely on
inaccurate information and data to come to its automated conclusions.
 The impact on human jobs and society as a whole. As AI technology quickly begins to
take over many tasks, many workers are grappling with the impact of AI on their
positions and their livelihoods.

Social Media and Online Behavior

Social media has become a key component of our daily lives, with people of all ages relying
heavily on social networking platforms to share information and consume content. As the social
media landscape has become more complex, serious ethical issues have developed. Research
published by the SSRN Journal states that common ethical issues related to social media and
online behavior include cyberbullying, online harassment and the spread of misinformation. IT
professionals, particularly those who work to develop and improve social media platforms, need
to make an active effort to promote digital citizenship as the world continues to adapt to the
impact of social media.

Intellectual Property and Copyright

Intellectual property rights are defined by the World Trade Organization as the rights given to
individuals over the items they have created. The digital age has ushered in an era of information
sharing that has compromised the intellectual property rights of professionals around the world.
As a result, IT professionals have worked to address software piracy and plagiarism in the digital
age. They have also collaborated with policymakers to enforce copyright laws online.

Trends in Information Technology and Ethics

These are the emerging trends in information technology, and the ethical implications associated
with those trends:

 Artificial Intelligence — AI technology continues to top the charts as one of the most
significant and impactful technological advancements of our time. The ethical use of AI
is a hot topic in the industry, as developers grapple with bias and other societal
implications.
 Big Data — The big data era is in full swing, with companies and organizations of all
sizes actively working to harvest, store and analyze data to improve their profits and
boost their customer loyalty ratings. As such, data privacy continues to be a top ethical
concern in IT.
 Smart Spaces — By leveraging the most advanced technology, including AI
technology, IT professionals can create smart spaces that improve energy efficiency and
reduce an organization’s carbon footprint.

How Can IT Professionals Remain Ethical?

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Regardless of their role within an organization, IT professionals have the power to uphold ethical
standards and promote responsible technology use.

These are some of the ways that IT professionals can promote ethics in the industry:

Developing a Code of Ethics

Organizations should actively work to develop an information technology code of ethics that
outlines clear practices that individuals must abide by. A code of ethics can help guide decision-
making within the organization, promote ethical behavior and foster a culture of responsibility.

Promoting Transparency and Accountability

Even when an organization is abiding by all laws and regulations regarding data collection, it is
still important to prioritize transparency and accountability. IT professionals should work to
increase transparency in their organizations, and request that they publish data collection and
usage practices so that consumers are aware. Across all levels, IT professionals must remain
accountable for their actions, particularly regarding technology and data decisions.

Educating and Training IT Professionals

Given the dynamic nature of the ethical landscape in the information technology field, it’s
essential for IT professionals to invest in ongoing education and training. Industry conferences,
professional development programs and certification programs allow IT professionals to stay
informed about ethical issues in the industry and to develop the skills needed to make
responsible choices. From certification courses to graduate degree programs, information
technology professionals have the opportunity to decide which education and training programs
are best for them.

What Are Social and Ethical Issues in Information Technology? Learn More At
Marymount University

At Marymount University, we are proud to offer a Master’s in Information Technology that not
only provides students with the advanced, technical skills needed to pursue leadership
opportunities in information technology, but also an in-depth understanding of the role of ethics
in information technology. By exploring the most relevant ethical issues in information
technology, including information privacy, the digital divide and effective energy use, graduates
of the program are prepared to take on more complex and nuanced challenges in the field.

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CMP 412 INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY LAW AND PROFESSIONAL

ETHICS

1. PROFESSIONAL ETHICS.

Professional ethics in information technology (IT) law refers to the ethical standards and
guidelines that govern the conduct of IT professionals in the legal field. It encompasses the
ethical responsibilities and principles that IT lawyers should adhere to when dealing with
technology-related legal issues. Some key aspects of professional ethics in IT law include:

1. Confidentiality: IT lawyers have a duty to maintain the confidentiality of client

information and data obtained during the course of their work. They should handle
sensitive information securely and ensure that it is not disclosed without proper
authorization.
2. Conflict of interest: IT lawyers should avoid situations where their personal or financial
interests may conflict with their professional duties. They must act in the best interests of
their clients and avoid any actions that compromise their objectivity or impartiality.
3. Competence: IT lawyers should possess the necessary knowledge, skills, and expertise to
provide competent legal advice and representation in technology- related matters. They
should stay updated with the latest developments in IT law and strive to enhance their
professional competence continually.
4. Integrity and professionalism: IT lawyers should maintain a high standard of integrity,
honesty, and professionalism in their interactions with clients, colleagues, and the legal
system. They should act ethically, with fairness, and in accordance with the law.
5. Privacy and data protection: IT lawyers often deal with issues related to privacy and data
protection. They should respect individuals' privacy rights, comply with relevant
data protection laws, and ensure that personal data is handled securely and in compliance
with applicable regulations.
6. Advocacy and representation: IT lawyers have a responsibility to advocate for their
clients' interests within the bounds of the law. However, they should not engage in
unethical or fraudulent practices to gain an unfair advantage.
7. Legal and ethical compliance: IT lawyers should comply with all applicable laws,
regulations, and professional standards governing their practice. They should also adhere
to ethical guidelines set by legal professional bodies or associations.
8. Continuing professional development: IT lawyers should engage in ongoing professional
development to enhance their knowledge and skills in IT law. This includes staying
informed about emerging technologies, legal precedents, and industry best practices. It is
essential for IT lawyers to uphold these professional ethics to maintain trust, integrity,
and credibility in their practice and to ensure the proper functioning of the legal system in
the context of information technology.
9. INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY. Intellectual property (IP) plays a crucial role in
information technology (IT) law and professional ethics. It encompasses legal rights that
are granted to individuals or entities for their creative and innovative works, such as
inventions, software, designs, logos, and literary or artistic creations. In the context of IT,
intellectual property rights help protect the valuable intangible assets that drive

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 innovation and technological advancements. In IT law, intellectual property is protected
through various legal mechanisms, including copyright, patents, trademarks, and trade
secrets. These mechanisms ensure that creators and innovators are granted exclusive
rights over their creations, allowing them to control and benefit from their intellectual
endeavors. Here's a brief overview of how intellectual property relates to IT law
and professional ethics:
1. Copyright: Copyright protects original works of authorship, such as software
code, databases, websites, and digital content. It grants the creator the exclusive
right to reproduce, distribute, display, and perform their work. IT professionals
10. Maintain Professional Integrity: Upholding professional integrity includes honesty,
transparency, and responsible behavior. IT professionals should not engage in plagiarism,
software piracy, or any other unethical practices related to intellectual property. By
understanding and complying with intellectual property laws and ethical principles, IT
professionals can foster an environment of innovation, respect for creativity, and protect
the interests of both themselves and others in the industry.
11. LAW OF CONTRACT. The law of contract plays a crucial role in information
technology (IT) law and professional ethics. Contracts are legally binding agreements
that outline the rights and obligations of the parties involved. In the context of IT law and
professional ethics, contracts are essential for establishing relationships between various
parties, including clients, service providers, vendors, and employees. Here are some key
aspects related to contracts in these fields:
12. Service Level Agreements (SLAs): IT service providers often enter into contracts with
clients through SLAs. SLAs define the scope of services, performance metrics, uptime
guarantees, response times, and other relevant parameters. These agreements ensure that
both parties have a clear understanding of their responsibilities and the expected level of
service.
13. Software Licensing Agreements: Contracts in IT often involve the licensing of software.
These agreements outline the terms and conditions under which the software can be used,
including restrictions, intellectual property rights, warranties, and liability provisions.
Software licensing agreements are crucial for protecting the interests of both the software
developer and the user.
14. Confidentiality and Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs): IT professionals and
organizations often deal with sensitive information, including trade secrets, proprietary
data, and client information. NDAs are contracts that safeguard the confidentiality of
such information, preventing its unauthorized disclosure or use by the involved parties.
15. Employment Contracts: In the IT industry, employment contracts are used to govern the
relationship between employers and employees. These contracts typically cover terms of
employment, job responsibilities, compensation, intellectual property ownership, non-
compete clauses, and confidentiality obligations.
16. Professional Ethics: While not strictly a contractual matter, professional ethics play a
significant role in the IT industry. IT professionals are expected to adhere to certain
ethical standards, such as maintaining client confidentiality, avoiding conflicts of interest,
respecting privacy rights, and promoting security practices. These ethical guidelines often
form part of professional codes of conduct or certifications. It's important to note
that the specific contractual requirements and ethical considerations in IT law can vary
depending on the jurisdiction, the nature of the IT services involved, and the

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 parties' specific roles. Consulting with legal professionals well-versed in IT law
and professional ethics is advisable to ensure compliance with applicable laws and best
practices.
17. LAW OF TORTS The law of torts plays a significant role in information technology (IT)
law and professional ethics. Torts are civil wrongs that involve harm or injury caused to
another person or their property. In the context of IT and professional ethics, several torts
are relevant. Here are a few examples:
1. Negligence: Negligence occurs when someone fails to exercise reasonable care,
resulting in harm to another person. In the IT field, negligence may arise from
actions such as failing to implement proper cybersecurity measures, resulting in a
data breach that harms individuals or organizations.
2. Defamation: Defamation involves making false statements about someone that
harm their reputation. In the digital era, defamation can occur through online
platforms, social media, or other forms of electronic communication. IT
professionals must be mindful of the content they create or share to avoid
defamatory statements.

In summary, the law of torts provides a legal framework to address civil wrongs in IT-related
contexts, while professional ethics guide the conduct of IT professionals to ensure responsible
and ethical practices in their work. 5. LAW OF TORTS The law of torts plays a significant role
in information technology (IT) law and professional ethics. Torts are civil wrongs that involve
harm or injury caused to another person or their property. In the context of IT and professional
ethics, several torts are relevant. Here are a few examples:

1. Negligence: Negligence occurs when someone fails to exercise reasonable care, resulting
in harm to another person. In the IT field, negligence may arise from actions such as
failing to implement proper cybersecurity measures, resulting in a data breach that harms
individuals or organizations.
2. Defamation: Defamation involves making false statements about someone that harm their
reputation. In the digital era, defamation can occur through online platforms, social
media, or other forms of electronic communication. IT professionals must be mindful of
the content they create or share to avoid defamatory statements.
3. Invasion of Privacy: Privacy torts protect individuals' right to privacy. In the IT
realm, invasion of privacy may occur through unauthorized access to personal data,
unlawful surveillance, or the disclosure of sensitive information without consent.
Maintaining data security and confidentiality is crucial to avoid potential privacy-related
torts.
4. Intellectual Property Infringement: Intellectual property rights, such as copyrights,
trademarks, and patents, protect creative works, brands, and inventions. In the IT field,
professionals must respect these rights and avoid infringing upon copyrighted software,
trademarks, or patented technologies. Professional ethics are also intertwined with the
law of torts in the IT industry. IT professionals are expected to adhere to ethical standards
that guide their conduct, including:
5. Confidentiality: IT professionals often handle sensitive information. Maintaining
confidentiality and safeguarding data against unauthorized access or disclosure is
essential to preserve trust and respect professional obligations.

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6. Integrity: Upholding integrity involves acting honestly, ethically, and responsibly. IT
professionals should avoid engaging in fraudulent activities, misrepresentation, or
misleading practices that could harm individuals or organizations.
7. Professional Competence: IT professionals are expected to possess the necessary
knowledge, skills, and expertise to carry out their duties competently. Failing to meet
professional standards or neglecting to stay updated on emerging technologies and best
practices can lead to potential legal and ethical issues.
8. Conflict of Interest: IT professionals should avoid conflicts of interest that could
compromise their objectivity or integrity. Disclosing potential conflicts and acting in the
best interests of clients or employers is vital to maintaining professional ethics. In
summary, the law of torts provides a legal framework to address civil wrongs in IT-
related contexts, while professional ethics guide the conduct of IT professionals to ensure
responsible and ethical practices in their work. 6 PRIVACY AND CIVIL LIBEERTIES
Privacy and civil liberties are essential considerations in information technology (IT) law
and professional ethics. As technology continues to advance and permeate various
aspects of our lives, it becomes increasingly important to strike a balance between the
benefits of technology and safeguarding individual rights and freedoms. Here are some
key points related to privacy and civil liberties in the context of IT law and professional
ethics:
9. Data Protection: Privacy laws and regulations govern the collection, use, and disclosure
of personal data. IT professionals have a responsibility to ensure compliance with these
laws, which may include obtaining informed consent,
10. Legal Compliance: IT professionals should stay updated with relevant laws, regulations,
and industry standards pertaining to privacy and civil liberties. They should ensure
compliance with data protection laws, intellectual property rights, and other legal
requirements. Overall, privacy and civil liberties considerations are integral to IT law and
professional ethics. IT professionals should proactively prioritize these concerns to foster
a responsible and ethical technology landscape.
6. Security Policies, Laws and Computer Crime. Security policies, laws, and
computer crime are important aspects of information technology law and
professional ethics. Let's discuss each of these topics in more detail:
11. Security Policies: Security policies are a set of guidelines and procedures that
organizations put in place to protect their information systems and data from
unauthorized access, use, disclosure, disruption, modification, or destruction. These
policies define the responsibilities of individuals within the organization, outline
acceptable use of technology resources, and provide guidelines for incident response and
recovery. Security policies play a crucial role in maintaining the confidentiality, integrity,
and availability of sensitive information.
12. Laws and Regulations: Various laws and regulations have been enacted to address
computer-related crimes and protect information systems. These laws differ between
countries, but some common examples include: a. Computer Fraud and Abuse Act
(CFAA): This United States federal law criminalizes unauthorized access to computer
systems, including hacking, theft of information, and damage to computer systems. b.
General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR): The GDPR is a European Union regulation
that sets guidelines for the collection, storage, and processing of personal data of
individuals within the EU. It provides individuals with control

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over their personal information and imposes obligations on organizations handling such data. c.
Cybercrime Convention (Budapest Convention): The Budapest Convention is an international
treaty that aims to harmonize laws related to cybercrime across different countries. It addresses a
wide range of computer-related offenses, including hacking, data interference, and computer-
related fraud. d. Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA): The DMCA is a U. law that
criminalizes the circumvention of digital rights management (DRM) technologies and prohibits
the distribution of tools or services designed to facilitate copyright infringement. These are just a
few examples, and there are many other laws and regulations worldwide that address computer
crimes, data protection, cybersecurity, and privacy. 3. Computer Crime: Computer crimes, also
known as cybercrimes, refer to criminal activities that are committed using computers, networks,
or digital devices. Common types of computer crimes include hacking, identity theft, phishing,
malware distribution, denial-of-service (DoS) attacks, and data breaches. These crimes can result
in financial losses, reputational damage, and privacy violations. Investigating and prosecuting
computer crimes require specialized knowledge and expertise in digital forensics and cybercrime
investigations. 4. Professional Ethics: Professional ethics in information technology encompass a
set of principles and standards that guide the conduct of IT professionals. These ethics revolve
around honesty, integrity, confidentiality, and respect for privacy. IT professionals are expected
to adhere to ethical codes and professional standards set by industry organizations, such as the
Association for Computing Machinery (ACM) and the Institute of Electrical and Electronics
Engineers (IEEE). Ethical considerations include protecting user privacy, avoiding conflicts of
interest, ensuring the accuracy of information, and maintaining professional competence.

3. IT Standards and Regulation: NITDA might be involved in setting standards for

hardware, software, and IT systems, ensuring their interoperability and quality. It may
also regulate the use of emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, blockchain, or
Internet of Things (IoT).
4. Professional Ethics and Conduct: NITDA could establish guidelines for professional
behavior and ethical practices within the IT industry. This may include promoting
professional certifications, encouraging continuous education, and defining codes of
conduct for IT professionals. It is important to note that specific policies and guidelines
may vary depending on the country and the agency responsible for IT development and
regulation. To obtain the most up-to-date and accurate information on NITDA's
policies and initiatives, I recommend visiting their official website or contacting them
directly for the latest information.
5. Nigeria computer society (NCS). The Nigeria Computer Society (NCS) is the umbrella
body for all professionals in the field of Information Technology (IT) in Nigeria. As an
organization, it promotes the development and advancement of IT in Nigeria, and it also
plays a significant role in shaping IT-related policies, laws, and professional ethics in the
country. In the area of information technology law, the NCS works to ensure that there is
an appropriate legal framework in place to govern IT practices in Nigeria. This includes
advocating for the enactment and enforcement of laws that address issues such as data
protection, cybersecurity, intellectual property, electronic transactions, and other relevant
areas. The NCS collaborates with government agencies, legislative bodies, and other
stakeholders to influence the formulation of IT-related laws and regulations. Regarding
professional ethics, the NCS sets standards and guidelines for IT professionals in Nigeria.
It promotes ethical conduct and professional excellence among its members, encouraging

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 adherence to principles of integrity, honesty, competence, and accountability in the IT
industry. The

NCS also provides a platform for professional development, networking, and knowledge sharing
to ensure that IT professionals in Nigeria stay updated with the latest ethical practices and
developments in the field. In summary, the Nigeria Computer Society plays a significant role in
shaping information technology law and professional ethics in Nigeria. It works towards creating
a conducive legal environment for IT practices and upholds ethical standards among IT
professionals in the country. (a) Membership categories The following are the membership
categories: 1. Fellow (FNCS): This category is reserved for professionals who have made
significant contributions to the field of information technology and have achieved a high level of
expertise and recognition. The criteria for becoming a Fellow typically include a minimum
number of years of professional experience, notable accomplishments, and recommendations
from existing Fellows or senior members of the NCS. 2. Full Member (MNCS): Full
Membership is open to professionals who possess relevant qualifications in information
technology or related fields and have demonstrated substantial experience in the industry.
Typically, a Bachelor's degree or higher in a relevant discipline, along with a certain
number of years of work experience, is required for this category. 3. Associate Member (ANCS):
Associate Membership is for individuals who have an interest in information technology but may
not yet have the necessary qualifications or experience to become Full Members. It is often
suitable for recent graduates or individuals in the early stages of their IT careers. 4. Corporate
Member (CNCS): Corporate Membership is available to organizations that wish to align
themselves with the objectives of the NCS. This category allows companies and institutions to
participate in NCS activities and contribute to the development of the IT profession.

4. Application Process: Membership usually requires completing an application form

provided by the organization. This form may request information about your educational
background, work experience, and other relevant details. Cessation: Cessation of
membership in a professional organization can occur under various circumstances. Some
common reasons for cessation include:
5. Non-Renewal: Membership in professional organizations is typically renewable on an
annual or periodic basis. If a member fails to renew their membership by the specified
deadline, their membership may cease.
6. Resignation: Members may choose to resign from the organization voluntarily. This can
be done by submitting a formal resignation letter or following the process outlined by the
organization.
7. Professional Misconduct: If a member is found to have engaged in professional
misconduct or violated the organization's code of ethics, their membership may be
terminated.
8. Non-Compliance: Failure to comply with the organization's rules, regulations, or
bylaws may result in cessation of membership. It is important to note that the specific
membership criteria and cessation processes for the Nigeria Computer Society may be
subject to change. Therefore, it is recommended to consult the NCS directly or refer to
their official website for the most accurate and up-to-date information on their
membership criteria and cessation procedures.

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 9. Computer professional of Nigeria. The Computer Professionals Registration Council of
Nigeria (CPN) is a regulatory body responsible for the regulation and control of the
computing profession in Nigeria. While the CPN has a role in setting

professional standards and promoting ethical practices in the field of information technology
(IT), it does not specifically focus on information technology law. However, as a computer
professional in Nigeria, it is essential to be aware of relevant laws and regulations that pertain to
the IT industry. These may include laws related to data protection, cyber security, intellectual
property, electronic transactions, and other areas relevant to the digital landscape. Additionally,
professional ethics play a crucial role in the IT industry. As a member of CPN or any other
professional organization, you are expected to adhere to a code of conduct that promotes
integrity, honesty, and responsible behavior in the practice of IT. This includes respecting user
privacy, maintaining confidentiality of information, avoiding conflicts of interest, and ensuring
the security and reliability of computing systems. Staying updated with developments in
information technology law and professional ethics is vital for computer professionals in Nigeria.
It helps ensure compliance with legal requirements and promotes the ethical use of technology
for the benefit of individuals and society as a whole.

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