THE IMPACT OF ETHICAL BEHAVIORS ON CONFIDENTIALITY AND INFORMATION SECURITY IN OFFICE ADMINISTRATION (A CASE STUDY OF ABDU GUSAU POLYTECHNIC TALATA MAFARA, ZAMFARA STATE)

ABSTRACT This research examined the impact of ethical behaviors on confidentiality and information security in office administration, with a specific focus on Abdu Gusau Polytechnic, Talata Mafara, Zamfara State. The study was motivated by the increasing importance of ethical standards in ensuring trust, professionalism, and the protection of sensitive information within office environments. The research adopted a descriptive survey design. A sample size of 100 respondents, consisting of administrative staff, lecturers, and students from the institution, was selected through a random sampling technique. Data were collected using structured questionnaires, which were designed to assess the relationship between ethical behavior, confidentiality practices, and information security in office administration. The data gathered were analyzed using frequency tables, percentages, and simple descriptive statistics. The findings revealed that ethical behavior significantly influences the level of confidentiality and information security within the office setting. Specifically, adherence to professional ethics such as honesty, integrity, and accountability promotes the protection of sensitive records, reduces information leakage, and enhances trust in administrative operations. Conversely, unethical practices such as carelessness, dishonesty, and unauthorized disclosure of information undermine office confidentiality and compromise the security of organizational records. The study concludes that ethical behavior is a vital determinant of effective office administration, particularly in safeguarding confidentiality and information security. It recommends that management should continuously organize training and workshops on ethical standards, enforce disciplinary measures against unethical practices, and adopt modern information security policies and technologies. Finally, further research is suggested on the role of digital ethics and cybersecurity in modern office administration.