LMSW Practice Test

A senior manager discovers security lapses in the computerized system that compromise client confidentiality. What is the first action the manager should take?

1. Find out who has been accessing files and fire those who have violated that agency policy.

2. Notify clients of the problems.

3. Notify the agency attorneys.

4. Shut down the system and implement temporary procedures to assure that only authorized staff have access to confidential files.

The correct answer is: Find out who has been accessing files and fire those who have violated that agency policy.

The most appropriate first action for the manager in this scenario involves shutting down the system and implementing temporary procedures to ensure that only authorized staff have access to confidential files. This step is crucial because it aims to immediately secure the compromised system and protect client confidentiality from any further breaches. By taking this action, the manager prioritizes the safeguarding of sensitive information, which is vital in maintaining trust and compliance with ethical standards in client management. While finding out who accessed the files and taking disciplinary measures could be a necessary step later on, it does not directly address the immediate risk of unauthorized access. Notifying clients about the problem or contacting the agency attorneys may also be important, but only after the system is secured; otherwise, continuing operations may exacerbate the breach and lead to more significant fallout. Therefore, the immediate focus should be on rectifying the security lapse by securing access to confidential information.