Code breached, data's dark dive, Ike tweaks the bank's loan sieve. Mike hides the needle, praise in sight, but shadows lengthen, conscience bites. Act now, confess, transparency's grace, reclaim trust, mend the ethical space.
Ethical Analysis of Mike and Ike's Actions:
Ike's Actions:
- Browsing bank servers: This likely violates principles of privacy and security. Accessing data beyond permitted scope is unauthorized and potentially illegal.
- Altering scoring formula: Modifying a key decision-making algorithm without authorization or informing stakeholders violates professional competence and honesty.
- Data analysis: While using available data for improvement can be ethical, using sensitive information like browser and IP data raises concerns about fairness and discrimination, especially without due diligence or transparency.
Mike's Actions:
- Lack of oversight: Not properly supervising his team and allowing unauthorized data access breaches the principle of responsibility.
- Concealing information: Withholding knowledge of unauthorized changes from the bank is dishonest and violates public interest.
- Motivated by self-interest: Prioritizing personal gain over transparency and ethical conduct goes against moral virtues.
Overall:
Both Mike and Ike's actions raise serious ethical concerns under the ACM Code of Ethics, particularly:
- Principle 1. General moral imperatives: Actions should uphold the highest professional standards and not harm public welfare.
- Principle 2. Social responsibility: Consider the impact of work on society and stakeholders.
- Principle 3. Honesty: Strive for honesty and truthfulness in all professional interactions.
- Principle 4. Fairness: Avoid bias and discrimination, ensuring fair treatment for all.
- Principle 5. Respect for property: Respect intellectual property and data privacy.
Recommendations:
- Immediate disclosure: Both Mike and Ike should formally disclose their actions to the bank, prioritizing transparency and minimizing potential harm.
- Ethical review: An independent review of the scoring formula and data usage is crucial to assess fairness and potential bias.
- Stakeholder consultation: The bank should engage with relevant stakeholders to address concerns and discuss potential remedies.
- Disciplinary action: Appropriate disciplinary measures might be necessary to uphold ethical standards and prevent future transgressions.
Conclusion:
While Ike's technical initiative might have had good intentions, the means employed were unethical and potentially harmful. Mike's attempt to cover up the changes further aggravates the situation. Prioritizing ethical conduct and open communication with stakeholders is paramount to rectify the situation and regain trust.