Bots, Misrepresentation and More: Navigating Ethical Dilemmas in Digital Communication

Juan Meng, Solyee Kim, Bryan Reber, Heidi Modarelli-Frank, and Karen Swim (Sept. 27, 2022). Bots, Misrepresentation and More: Navigating Ethical Dilemmas in Digital Communication, moderated by Michele E. Ewing. This webinar is organized and sponsored by the Public Relations Society of America’s Board of Ethics and Professional Standards and the Corporate Communication Section.

Abstract: The integration of social and digital media in public relations practice has presented an array of ethical dilemmas — a lack of transparency, unreported endorsements, use of bots, consumer privacy breaches, and misrepresentation of a brand or organization are just a few examples. This webinar shares insight about how public relations professionals can effectively navigate digital communication ethics. Key topics to be covered: 1) a research study among U.S. and Canada public relations professionals focused on the frequency and types of ethical challenges facing public relations professionals in today’s digital communication environment; 2) resources, training and how to integrate the values of the PRSA Code of Ethics to guide ethical decision-making processes and behavior for digital communication; and 3) personal experiences and guidance related to digital ethics from public relations scholars and practitioners.