What type of information should never be disclosed without authorization?

The correct answer is that all of the listed types of information—financial reports, personal information, and protected health information—should never be disclosed without proper authorization. The reason behind this is the principle of confidentiality, which is essential in maintaining trust between individuals and organizations.

Financial reports may contain sensitive data that, if disclosed without authorization, could lead to financial harm or manipulation in the market. These documents often include proprietary information that companies rely on to maintain a competitive edge.

Personal information encompasses a wide range of data, such as social security numbers, addresses, and contact information. Unauthorized disclosure of this type of information can lead to identity theft and invasion of privacy, which are serious issues in today’s digital age.

Protected health information, governed by laws such as HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act), must be safeguarded rigorously. Disclosure of health information without authorization can severely violate individuals' privacy rights and may lead to legal repercussions for the organization involved.

Understanding that all of these categories of information require strict adherence to confidentiality and authorization procedures is crucial for ethical practice in any professional context, including that of Aflac.