ETHICSPOINT FAQS

About EthicsPoint

What is EthicsPoint?

EthicsPoint is a comprehensive and private reporting tool created by NAVEX that enables UConn to review potential violations of policy, applicable laws and other misconduct while cultivating a culture of compliance.

Why do we need a system like EthicsPoint?

Our community members, including employees, students, and patients are our most important asset. By creating open channels of communication, we strive to promote a positive working and learning environment and to maximize productivity and service. Additionally, an effective reporting system augments our other efforts to foster a culture of integrity and ethical decision-making.

Reporting – General

May I report using either the internet or the telephone?

Yes. EthicsPoint enables you to file a private, anonymous report via telephone, internet, or through a mobile device.

What types of situations should I report?

The EthicsPoint system allows individuals to report any potential violation of UConn’s stated policies, Code of Conduct, or applicable laws.

If I see a violation, shouldn't I just report it to my manager, Division of Public Safety, or Department of Human Resources and let them deal with it?

When you observe potential violations, UConn expects you to report it. Ideally, you should bring any concerns forward to your direct manager or other member of UConn’s management team. We recognize, however, that there may be circumstances when you are not comfortable reporting the issue directly or are unsure who to report to. It is for such circumstances that UConn has partnered with NAVEX. UConn would rather you report a concern anonymously so we can appropriately address the matter, than keep the information to yourself.

Why should I report what I know? What’s in it for me?

We all have the right to work and learn in a positive environment and with that right comes the responsibility of acting in an ethical manner and letting the appropriate people know if someone is not acting in accordance with our standards and values. By working together, we can maintain a healthy and productive environment.

Does UConn really want me to report?

We certainly do. In fact, we need you to report. You know what is going on at UConn - both good and bad. You may have initial knowledge of an activity that may be cause for concern. Your reporting can minimize the potential negative impact on the institution and our community. Also, offering input may help identify issues that can improve the overall UConn culture.

Where do these reports go? Who can access them?

Reports are entered directly on the EthicsPoint secure server. NAVEX makes these reports available only to specific individuals within the Office of University Compliance who are responsible for reviewing and evaluating the report, based on the type of alleged violation and location of the incident. Each of these report recipients has had training in keeping these reports private and discreet to the extent allowable under University policy and applicable laws.

What if I remember something important about the incident after I file the report? Or what if the Office of University Compliance has further questions for me concerning my report?

When you file a report through the EthicsPoint Website, mobile site, or through the EthicsPoint Call Center, you receive a unique, randomized number called a “Report Key” and are asked to choose a password. You can return to the EthicsPoint system again either by Internet or telephone and access the original report to add more detail or answer questions posed by the Office of University Compliance. We strongly suggest that you check back in the time specified to answer questions from UConn.

What if I lose my report key or forget the password I created?

If you lose or misplace your report key or password, it cannot be restored. To ensure that security and privacy is maintained, if you lose your report key or password, you will need to file a new report.

Isn’t this system just an example of someone watching over me?

No. EthicsPoint is a positive aspect of our overall philosophy that allows us to ensure a safe, secure and ethical institution. You are encouraged to seek guidance on ethical dilemmas, provide positive suggestions, or communicate a concern. Effective communication is critical to a culture of compliance and this is a great tool to enhance that communication.

We have carefully chosen a reporting tool to meet our compliance obligations while maintaining a positive reporting environment.

Reporting Security & Privacy

It is my understanding that any report I send from a UConn computer generates a server log that shows every website that my PC connects with. Won’t this log identify me as the report originator?

NAVEX does not generate or maintain any internal connection logs with IP addresses, so no information linking your PC to EthicsPoint is available.

If you feel uncomfortable making a report on a UConn issued device, you have the option of using a personal electronic mobile device, through the EthicsPoint secure website. Many people choose this option, as NAVEX’s data shows that fewer than 12% of reports are generated during typical business hours.

Can I file a report from home and still remain anonymous?

A report from home, a neighbor’s computer, or from anywhere will remain secure and anonymous. An internet portal never identifies a visitor by screen name and the EthicsPoint system strips away internet addresses so that anonymity is totally maintained.

I am concerned that the information I provide EthicsPoint will ultimately reveal my identity. How can you assure me that will not happen?

The EthicsPoint system protects your anonymity. However, if you wish to remain anonymous, you - as a reporting party - need to ensure that the body of the report does not reveal your identity by accident. For example, “From my cube next to Jan Smith…” or “In my 33 years…”.

Is the telephone toll-free Reportline anonymous too?

You will be asked to provide the same information that you would provide in an internet-based report and a Communication Specialist will type your responses into the EthicsPoint Web site. These reports have the same security and anonymity measures applied to them during delivery to the Office of University Compliance.

What if I want to be identified with my report?

There is a section in the report to identify yourself, if you wish.

Tips & Best Practices

I am aware of some individuals acting against our standards and values, but it doesn't affect me. Why should I bother reporting it?

All conduct that goes against established standards and values, at any level, ultimately hurts the institution. If you know of any incidents of misconduct or potential violations, consider it your responsibility to yourself and the institution to report it.

I am not sure if what I have observed or heard is a violation of policy or misconduct, but it just does not look right to me. What should I do?

File a report. We can help you prepare and file your report so it can be properly understood. We'd rather you report a situation than let possible compliance incidents or misconduct go unchecked. There is also the option to utilize the Reportline to seek guidance or ask a compliance question.

If I submit a follow-up report with additional information to the initial report I submitted, is it as secure as the first one?

All EthicsPoint correspondences are held in the same strict confidence as the initial report, continuing anonymity.

Can I still file a report if I don’t have access to a computer?

If you don’t have access to or are uncomfortable using a computer, you can call the Reportline, which is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.