In the short term, unethical behaviors – such as abusive labor contracts, fraud, bribes and embezzlement - can lead to profits more readily than fairness can. However, such conduct runs the risk of losing the confidence of those affect, or of others who have observed the conduct. In some cases, such practice can even lead to costly legal penalties. If a public scandal ensures, the loss of reputation can be dramatic; drastic action, as well as the investment of much time and money, might be necessary to recover credibility and trust.