Which of the following factors may allow for the sharing of confidential information without consent?

Sharing confidential information without consent can occur in emergency situations due to the need to protect the health and safety of individuals. In healthcare, for instance, if a patient is unable to communicate because of a medical emergency, healthcare providers may share essential information with other medical personnel to ensure immediate care is provided. This allows for a response that prioritizes life-saving measures and timely interventions, which may not be possible if consent is strictly required.

In contrast, the other factors listed do not typically justify sharing confidential information. Financial motivations or personal convenience do not align with the ethical and legal standards governing confidentiality. Similarly, while there may be instances where general public interest could inform decisions, it does not provide a blanket justification for bypassing consent, especially in cases where individual privacy and rights are at stake. Hence, emergency situations stand out as the most valid reason for allowing the sharing of confidential information without prior consent.