Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) Practice Test

In what scenario would disclosing confidential information be appropriate?

1. When it is shared with colleagues for training purposes.

2. When there is a court order demanding the information.

3. If management approves the disclosure.

4. When an employee requests it informally.

The correct answer is: When there is a court order demanding the information.

Disclosing confidential information is appropriate when there is a court order demanding the information. In a legal context, a court order represents a judicial directive that requires compliance, and failing to disclose the information as mandated could lead to legal consequences. It is crucial for professionals, including internal auditors, to adhere to legal obligations and prioritize compliance with the law, even in cases where they may typically be bound by confidentiality agreements. In scenarios where information is shared among colleagues for training purposes or with management approval, the situation can be more nuanced and dependent on organizational policies regarding information sharing and confidentiality. Sharing information informally upon an employee's request may not only violate confidentiality norms but also lacks the formal backing or necessity under legal or organizational requirements. Thus, in the absence of a court order, such disclosures usually should be tempered with caution.