Final answer:
IT professionals have strict legal and ethical standards primarily because of the credentials they hold to perform their job and the strategic role they play in an organization.
Step-by-step explanation:
IT professionals have strict legal and ethical standards primarily because of the credentials they hold to perform their job. These credentials often require individuals to follow specific guidelines and codes of conduct to ensure that they are acting in an ethical and professional manner. For example, professional organizations like the Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers Computer Society (IEEE-CS) provide resources and certifications for computer science and engineering professionals, including an adoption of the Software Engineering Code of Ethics and Professional Practice.
Additionally, the strategic role IT professionals play in an organization also necessitates adherence to legal and ethical standards. IT professionals often have access to sensitive information and systems, and any unethical behavior could have serious consequences for both the organization and individuals involved. The pressure to behave ethically and responsibly is hence significant.
While IT professionals may not take an explicit oath, their job demands a commitment to ethical and professional conduct that is often reinforced by the credentials they hold and the strategic role they play in an organization.