Who are considered whistleblowers?

Whistleblowers are individuals who bring attention to unethical or illegal activities within an organization by reporting them to the appropriate authorities. This could involve reporting issues such as fraud, corruption, or violations of laws and regulations. The act of whistleblowing plays a crucial role in maintaining ethical standards and accountability within organizations, as it encourages transparency and can prevent further wrongdoing.

The other options do not accurately represent the concept of a whistleblower. Individuals who support unethical practices do not engage in reporting misconduct; rather, they may perpetuate harmful behaviors. Employees who remain silent about issues are not acting to improve situations or hold others accountable, and leaders who focus solely on profits may ignore unethical practices, prioritizing financial gain over ethical considerations. Therefore, the choice that correctly defines a whistleblower aligns with the act of reporting misconduct to authorities.