It is our human nature to try and protect ourselves and our loved ones. Whether it be through virtuous or unethical ways, protection is key to survival. In the Scarlet Letter by Nathaniel Hawthorne, Hester Prynne is a prime example where the concealment of information affects many of those around her.
In the beginning of the novel, Hester refuses to state the name of the father, which seems to save Dimmesdale from public scrutiny for the moment. Another instance where Hester conceals the truth is when she promises Chillingworth that she wouldn't tell anyone about their prior relationship. As a result, however, Dimmesdale slowly but surely grows weaker due to guilt. Since he is a sensitive yet virtuous man, his conscience is strong. Without the truth, he becomes more emaciated day by day.
In history, there have also been accounts where concealing information has led to costly consequences. The Watergate Scandal in the 1970s involved the breaking and entering into the Democratic National Committee headquarters at the Watergate complex. Additionally, it was revealed that President Nixon had a tape-recording system in his offices and he had recorded many conversations that the Democrats had. After failing to cover up his ploy, he had to resign from presidency.
A good moral we can learn from this is to always stay truthful, for "the truth can se you free." Unless you want to be like Pinocchio.
I liked your historical references! Concealing the truth usually does lead to larger repercussions, since it's almost impossible to keep something hidden forever. I agree that staying truthful is generally the best thing to do.
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