Responsible Use of Information Technology

The University’s policy on the responsible use of information technology was created to provide a secure and reliable computing environment at the University that will facilitate and encourage the exchange of ideas and information as well as protect the freedom of speech rights of the members of the University community. These policies establish basic rights for all users and describe expectations for responsible use to ensure those rights.

The full policy is available both at http://www.albany.edu/policies/computer_usage/ and printed in the University’s student code of conduct, Community Rights & Responsibilities. You can access a full copy from the Web at http://www.albany.edu/judicial, or request a hard copy from the Office of Conflict Resolution & Civic Responsibility in Campus Center Room 361

Social Networking Sites

Facebook and MySpace are unquestionably enjoyable outlets for self-expression, but they carry obligations, too. You are developing your on-line profile with every post you make, so be mindful of what you share with the public. Social networking sites are not private property. The Internet is a public space. Remember, what you post is a reflection of you. University faculty and staff do not patrol these sites but are aware of and may be a member of them, giving them an opportunity to view profiles. If appropriate, they may address concerns with you about what you’re posting. Check your settings for privacy options to control who views your information. You should be aware that any information contained in your profile, even if limited in access to those you designate, is public information that can resurface at any time. For tips on how to manage social networking sites visit the Student Handbook on the Web at http://www.albany.edu/studentaffairs/handbook/.

Illegal File Sharing and the Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA)

Copyright infringement is any reproduction, display, or distribution (sharing) of copyrighted material without permission of the copyright owner. Even if you paid for the material (e.g., iTunes, own the CD), sharing it is infringement. Sharing copyrighted files using a peer-to-peer application such as Limeware, Bit Torrent, or DC++ is also copyright infringement and a serious offense that has resulted in lawsuits and thousands of dollars in fines for students. If you engage in illegal file sharing, you put yourself at risk for losing your residential and/or wireless access to the University’s networks and will have to meet with a staff person from the Office of Conflict Resolution & Civic Responsibility to resolve your complaint. For more information on copyright infringement and tips on how to avoid illegal file sharing visit http://www.albany.edu/studentaffairs/resources_copyright.shtml.