Ethically speaking, mistakes are a problem because they cause harm, or because they result from a lapse in an obligation we ought to be honoring, or both. Thus, an ethical response to messing up ought to involving addressing that harm and/or getting back on track with the obligation we fell down on.

Ethical issues occur when a given decision, scenario or activity creates a conflict with a society’s moral principles. Ethical issues are challenging because they are difficult to deal with if no guidelines or precedents are known.

Examples of ethical lapses include business-related misconduct such as fraud, bribery, insider trading, and environmental disasters involving negligence or recklessness. They also include personal ethical misconduct, such as inflated résumés and sexual indiscretions.

10 Tips for Avoiding Ethical Lapses When Using Social Media

1. Social Media Profiles and Posts May Constitute Legal Advertising.
2. Avoid Making False or Misleading Statements.
3. Avoid Making Prohibited Solicitations.
4. Do Not Disclose Privileged or Confidential Information.
5. Do Not Assume You Can “Friend” Judges.
6. Avoid Communications with Represented Parties.

“Any decision that has an impact on others now or in the future is an ethical choice,” explains ethicist Christopher Gilbert, author of the new book There’s No Right Way To Do the Wrong Thing. …

Lapses in workplace ethics result from inappropriate officer behavior such as insider stock trading, expense account fraud, sexual harassment, and involvement in conflicts of interest.

Making Ethical Decisions: Things to Ask Yourself

1. Does your decision conflict with any of the core ethical values?
2. Think of someone whose moral judgment you respect.
3. How will your decision affect others?
4. Ask yourself: Are my actions legal?
5. Are there regulations, rules, or policies that restrict your choices/ actions?
6. Would your decision be perceived as unethical?

Observing Personal Information Monitoring company electronic and digital devices, including phones and computers, is legal in all states. However, monitoring these devices without employee knowledge can create an ethical dilemma for you as a business owner because of the personal information you may hear or see.