What action must an agent take if they identify a potential ethical violation?

An agent must report a potential ethical violation to the appropriate authority because this action is essential to uphold the integrity of the profession and to ensure that any allegations of misconduct are treated seriously. Reporting an ethical violation is part of the agent's obligation to act in accordance with established ethical standards and to protect the interests of clients, the public, and the profession itself.

By choosing to report, the agent demonstrates a commitment to accountability and transparency. This proactive approach helps to maintain trust in the agency’s practices and contributes to a culture of ethical compliance. It is vital for agents to be vigilant about ethical standards and to take responsibility for addressing issues as they arise, rather than ignoring them, discussing them informally, or waiting for someone else to take action.