ACCA Strategic Business Leader (SBL) Practice Exam

Which of the following is a primary ethical implication of technology use?

1. Increased productivity

2. Data collection without consent

3. Convenience for users

4. Improvement in communication efficiency

The correct answer is: Data collection without consent

The primary ethical implication of technology use highlighted in this question pertains to data collection without consent. In an increasingly digital world, the collection and use of personal data by organizations raise significant ethical concerns. This issue revolves around the right of individuals to control their personal information and the implications of unauthorized access or usage of that information. Data privacy is a critical concern, as many technologies continuously gather data from users, often without their explicit consent or awareness. This practice can lead to breaches of trust between consumers and companies, risk of identity theft, and potential misuse of sensitive information. Furthermore, it raises questions about informed consent, transparency, and the ethical responsibility of organizations regarding how they handle and protect user data. In contrast, the other options—such as increased productivity, convenience for users, and improvement in communication efficiency—while they may have positive implications for society and businesses, do not inherently contain ethical dilemmas related to technology use. They represent more of a focus on the benefits of technology rather than the ethical considerations surrounding individual rights and privacy.