When asked for sensitive information by a colleague, what should be your response?

The most appropriate response when asked for sensitive information by a colleague is to request that they ask formally through their supervisor. This approach ensures that there is a proper chain of command and that the request for sensitive information is appropriately vetted. Sensitive information often involves confidentiality and privacy concerns, and handling it in a systematic manner protects both the individuals involved and the integrity of the information.

By directing the colleague to obtain the information through their supervisor, it establishes a protocol that upholds compliance standards and mitigates the risk of unauthorized disclosure of sensitive information. This response also clarifies the necessity of transparency and accountability within the workplace. It emphasizes the importance of adhering to the established guidelines within the organization regarding the sharing of sensitive information.

Providing information freely as a sign of trust, yielding to pressure to avoid conflict, or ignoring the request can lead to various issues, including breaches of confidentiality and potential non-compliance with institutional policies. Each of those responses can compromise the organization's standards for handling sensitive information, which is why the formal request through the supervisor is the most responsible and compliant action to take.