Considering Information System Acceptable Use Policies and Ethical Issues

• In Event: Technology and Ethics

Abstract

The use and management of information systems in organizations includes engaging with policy, legal and ethical issues. This case can be used to help students evaluate and understand IS Acceptable Use Policies (AUP) and the ethical issues related to the discovery of illegal information on an employer’s computer. The case also provides a context for discussions including privacy expectations and laws (from an employer and employee perspective), whistleblower hotlines, and conditions related to a hostile work environment. Each of these topics is addressed in discussion questions at the end of the case. The case has been used successfully in a graduate level IT audit course, but would also be applicable in any accounting or technology course where these issues are covered.

Authors

• Bonnie W Morris, Duquesne University

• Virginia Franke Kleist, West Virginia University

• Richard B Dull, West Virginia University