To break this seal of secrecy for any reason is a serious sin. A person who has sinned in any of these ways against charity and justice must intend to repair the harm done to his neighbor. The reparation should be public if at all possible, but if necessary it may be made privately. Society needs information in order to make right decisions, and well-informed citizens contribute to the common good. This right is not unconditional, but is governed by love of neighbor as the Gospel teaches.
Charity remains the greatest good.
Other rights which parallel the right to information are the right to privacy for individuals, families and societies, as well as the right of secrecy, which is binding for professional reasons and for matters of conscience. They must be acquainted with the norms of morality and conscientiously practice them in this area. They must always give what is true and, as far as justice and charity permit, what is complete. This calls for balanced judgment and prudence. Readers, listeners and viewers should critically evaluate media presentations and choose what is morally good and truthful.