Computer and Technology Use

All students are required to comply with the university’s Computer and Technology Use Policy.

The university’s Computer and Technology Use Policy prohibits students from uploading, downloading, posting, publishing, transmitting, retaining, reproducing, sharing or distributing in any way information, software, movies, music, books, articles or any other material which is protected by copyright or other proprietary right, without obtaining permission of the owner. Violation of this policy may result in the termination of the student's access to the internet via the university’s internet system, and constitutes a violation of the Student Code of Conduct.

Copyright Infringement

Students should be aware that unauthorized distribution of copyrighted material, including unauthorized peer-to-peer file sharing, may subject the student to civil and criminal liabilities. In general, anyone found liable for civil copyright infringement may be ordered to pay either actual damages or “statutory” damages affixed at not less than $750 and not more than $30,000 per work infringed. For “willful” infringement, a court may award up to $150,000 per work infringed. A court can, at its discretion, also assess costs and attorneys’ fees. For details, see Title 17, United States Code, Sections 504, 505. Willful copyright infringement can also result in criminal penalties, including imprisonment of up to five years and fines of up to $250,000 per offense. For more information, please see the website of the U.S. copyright office, especially their FAQs. Please refer to the Computer and Technology Use Policy for a further description of prohibited activities regarding the use of university technology resources.

Unauthorized peer-to-peer file sharing is a violation of law, as well as university policy, including the Student Code of Conduct. Students engaging in unauthorized peer-to-peer file sharing, including illegal downloading and unauthorized distribution of copyrighted materials, will be subject to disciplinary action up to and including suspension or dismissal from the university.

Legal Downloading

The Higher Education Opportunity Act of 2008 requires all colleges and universities to offer legal alternatives to unauthorized downloading. Educause maintains a list of legal alternatives to which students can refer. The products or services listed are in no way endorsed or evaluated by the university.