Can I File a Formal Complaint With the (ISC)²?

Fri Jul 15 15:48:35 CDT 2011

Based on: My Canons on (ISC)² Ethics


To file a complaint against an (ISC)² certified member, you must follow the complaint procedure which stipulates that certain people can file a complaint based on the breach of specific canons. To make it easier to understand, the following chart breaks down the canon along with the complainant, and if that person can file the complaint. The (ISC)² code of ethics canons:

1. Protect society, the commonwealth, and the infrastructure.
2. Act honorably, honestly, justly, responsibly, and legally.
3. Provide diligent and competent service to principals.
4. Advance and protect the profession.

Canon Complaintant Can I?
1 Member of Public Yes
2 Member of Public Yes
3 Member of Public No
3 Principal (*) Yes
4 Member of Public No
4 Certified/Licensed Professional (**) Yes


* A "principal" is defined as "those with an employer/contractor relationship with the certificate holder"

** Must also subscribe to a code of ethics, but not necessarily the (ISC)² code.

Copyright 2011 Brian Martin. Permission is granted to quote, reprint or redistribute provided the text is not altered, appropriate credit is given and a link to the original copy is included.

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