What principle is violated when an insurance professional shares client information without consent?

When an insurance professional shares client information without consent, the principle of confidentiality is violated. Confidentiality emphasizes the obligation of professionals to protect sensitive client information and only disclose it under circumstances where consent has been provided by the client or where legal requirements compel such disclosure. This principle is vital in maintaining trust in the professional-client relationship, allowing clients to feel secure in sharing their personal and financial information.

Confidentiality is foundational to the ethical standards set within the insurance industry, as it ensures that clients' private matters are safeguarded, fostering a trusting environment between clients and professionals. Violating this principle can lead to significant repercussions not only for the client but also for the insurance professional, potentially resulting in legal consequences and damage to their reputation.

In the context of the other options, transparency refers to the clear communication of information related to policies and practices, integrity involves adherence to ethical principles and honesty, and accountability pertains to accepting responsibility for one’s actions. While these are all important principles in insurance practice, the specific violation in this scenario pertains directly to confidentiality.