Which of the following is a consequence of failing to protect privacy and civil liberties?

The consequence of failing to protect privacy and civil liberties extends beyond mere compliance issues; it has significant implications for the overall health of an organization. Undermining morale occurs when employees feel their privacy is not respected, leading to a workplace atmosphere of distrust and insecurity. This erosion of trust can result in decreased motivation and engagement among staff, which typically leads to lower productivity levels.

Additionally, potential legal consequences arise from lapses in privacy protection, as organizations risk violating laws and regulations designed to safeguard personal information. These violations can lead to costly legal battles, fines, and damage to an organization’s reputation. When employees perceive that their rights are not being adequately protected, it can lead to whistleblowing or other forms of dissent that may further destabilize the workplace.

In contrast, the other choices do not accurately reflect the realities of failing to protect privacy and civil liberties. A decrease in workplace efficiency may occur, but it is more directly linked to moral and legal issues than to operational inefficiencies by themselves. Enhanced employee productivity is unlikely in environments where privacy is compromised, and a reduction in operational costs is not a direct benefit; instead, it might lead to increased expenses due to litigation or compensation for damages. Thus, option B encapsulates the broader implications