Module 2 - Ethics for IT Workers and IT Users

Vocabulary flashcards covering key terms and definitions from the lecture on IT ethics.

Ethics in IT

Applying moral principles to the design, development, deployment, and use of information technology; decisions go beyond legality.

IT professionals

Individuals with access to sensitive data and critical systems who have a duty to act ethically and responsibly.

IT users

People who use computers and the Internet and have ethical responsibilities in their online behavior.

Moral principles

Core beliefs such as honesty, integrity, and accountability that guide ethical behavior in IT.

Legal vs moral considerations

An action can be legal but not moral; legality does not guarantee morality.

Data privacy

Ethical handling of personal data, including consent, protection, and appropriate use.

Cybersecurity

Protection of information systems from unauthorized access, breaches, and harm as an ethical responsibility.

Decision-making frameworks in ethics

Structured methods used to analyze dilemmas and justify ethical decisions.

Stakeholders

People or groups affected by IT decisions (users, clients, employees, society, regulators).

Professional code of ethics

Formal rules guiding professional conduct to maintain trust and responsible tech use.

Key ethical responsibilities of IT professionals

Obligations such as safeguarding data, protecting privacy, and acting with integrity.

Core principles of IT ethics

Foundational ideas like respect, fairness, transparency, and accountability in IT.

Digital citizenship

Responsible, lawful, and respectful online behavior.

Respect for Others

Treating people online and offline with dignity, avoiding harassment and discrimination.

Honesty and Integrity (users)

Truthfulness and consistency with moral standards in online actions.

Adherence to Policies

Following organizational, legal, and regulatory rules for IT use.

Legal Use of Software

Respecting licenses, terms of use, and copyright when using software.

Open feedback on ethical issues

Encouraging candid discussion to identify problems early and improve practices.

Ethical collaboration

Cooperative practice between IT professionals and users to build trust and reduce misunderstandings.