Computer professionals sometimes encounter situations in which the right course of action requires a decision based on evaluating what's right and wrong. Professional refers to on-the-job choices and actions that reflect a person's values. Ethical decisions should take into account applicable , such as the Digital Millennium Copyright Act. Laws and ethics are not the same thing, however, and sometimes following the letter of the law does not result in ethical behavior. Situations that require computer professionals to make ethical decisions often involve software copyrights, privacy, conflict of interest, use of work computers, software quality, hacking, and social . Ethical decisions made on the job can have long-term career effects. Many IT organizations have a(n) code of ethics designed to help computer professionals make tough decisions. Additional help in making ethical decisions can also be obtained from knowledgeable friends, mentors, lawyers, and workplace counselors. Computer professionals who are compelled to become and speak out against on-the-job activities that threaten the public interest should understand the potential legal and career risks before they proceed.