The digital transformation of contemporary educational systems introduced numerous challenges and opportunities for educational managers. One of the most prominent challenges involves ethical issues stemming from the extensive use of technology in educational environments, particularly at the intersection of educational leadership and digital responsibility (digital ethics compliance). This qualitative phenomenological study, using semi-structured in-depth interviews with 12 principals from public and private schools, aims to identify the various dimensions of ethical challenges in educational management in the digital age. Data analysis was conducted using MAXQDA software. The results indicate that the key ethical challenges include protecting the privacy of students’ and teachers’ data, inequality in access to digital tools, hidden biases in educational algorithms, instrumental use of personal data, and the psychological impacts of technology on educational stakeholders. Participants emphasized the need for clear ethical frameworks, enhancing digital literacy among school leaders, and institutionalizing a culture of digital accountability. In addition, the findings also suggest that educational leadership in the digital era requires the integration of technological knowledge with ethical insight, policymaking skills, and the ability to make transparent decisions. This study offers practical recommendations for policymakers, school administrators, and regulatory bodies to support ethical governance in digitally-driven education systems.