Further, the scandal, dubbed HPGate, damaged the brand and reputation of HP and the credibility of the executive team, valued assets for any company. Most disturbing and most convincing of proof of unethical conduct, is the fact that Dunn's actions violated California's state laws. Detectives, with the consent of Dunn, had used an illegal practice called "pretexting" to gain access to cell phone records. Pretexting is pretending to be an account holder to gain access to account information.

Rather than defending herself for condoning this illegal practice, Dunn blamed her lawyers who she claimed advised her that all of her activities were legal.

When all of Dunn's activities became public knowledge, Dunn refused to behave as a socially responsible executive. She never apologized or took responsibility for her...

Obviously, others viewed the situation differently, no doubt for at least some of the very same reasons discussed in this analysis. Critics questioned her motives, her ability to carry out her professional responsibility as well as the legality and social responsibility of her actions.
Bibliography

Holtzman, DH (2006, October 11). Hubris at HP and beyond. BusinessWeek http://www.businessweek.com/technology/content/oct2006/tc20061011_581843.htm?chan=search