Evaluating the Ethical Frameworks of Information Security Professionals: A Comparative Analysis

Abstract

Information Technology (IT) networks have become a cornerstone of business communication, evolving alongside the Internet, which now facilitates the interconnection of independent IT infrastructures. This interconnectedness has increased the risks of information disclosure and privacy violations, presenting ethical challenges for information security professionals. This study aims to evaluate the ethical codes of four major information security professional organizations in computing sciences to identify critical ethical considerations for these professionals and highlight areas for potential improvement. The study analyzes the ethical frameworks and guidelines provided by these organizations, examining their alignment with the multidimensional aspects of security, including technical, organizational, legal, social, and ecological factors. The analysis reveals that information security extends beyond technical measures, encompassing broader organizational and societal dimensions. Ethical concerns cannot be effectively addressed without engaging all stakeholders. While existing codes of ethics and security policies are valuable, they require updates to address the evolving challenges of the information society. For effective information security, professional codes of ethics must integrate comprehensive stakeholder considerations and adapt to meet the growing demands of a connected digital world. Enhancing these ethical frameworks is crucial for fostering trust and resilience in the information society.