In interagency information sharing, which practice aligns with ethical standards?

• A. Share all data regardless of relevance.
• B. Delay sharing to maintain control.
• C. Share only information relevant to the request, protect privacy, and avoid compromising investigations.
• D. Share data publicly to maximize transparency.

Answer: (C)

Ethical information sharing centers on providing access to what’s needed for the task while protecting individuals’ privacy and the integrity of ongoing investigations. Sharing only information that’s relevant to the request, protecting privacy, and avoiding actions that could compromise investigations hits that balance: it follows the need-to-know principle, minimizes unnecessary data exposure, and uses safeguards like redaction when appropriate.

Sharing all data regardless of relevance ignores privacy and purpose, and can reveal sensitive details that aren’t needed. Delaying sharing to maintain control blocks legitimate collaboration and can hinder outcomes. Publicly sharing data to maximize transparency risks exposing sensitive information and could jeopardize investigations.

So, the best practice is to share only information that’s relevant to the request, protect privacy, and avoid compromising investigations.