Georgetown University
Computer Systems Acceptable Use Policy

Revised: October 28, 2005
Approved by the Faculty Senate January, 2006

• Statement
• Applicability
• Guiding Principles
• Disclaimer
• Responsibilities
• Administration and Implementation
• Enforcement
• Resource(s) and Other Applicable Policies and Procedures
• Approval of Original Policy
• Review Cycle

STATEMENT:

APPLICABILITY:

GUIDING PRINCIPLES:

Georgetown University computing and network resources are to be used only for University-related research, instruction, learning, enrichment, dissemination of scholarly information, and administrative activities. The computing and network facilities of the University are limited and should be used wisely and carefully with consideration for the needs of others. Computers and network systems offer powerful tools for communications, education and research among members of the University community and communities outside the University. When used appropriately, these tools can enhance dialog and communications. When used unlawfully or inappropriately, however, these tools can infringe on the beliefs or rights of others.
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DISCLAIMER:

RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Functionality and Availability

   You must ensure that your actions and the computers you own or that are assigned for your use do not negatively impact the functionality and availability of the Georgetown University computer systems, enterprise and application systems, and network services. You must ensure that your computer is properly maintained, including having up-to-date anti-virus protection and operating system patches. Responsible use of computing and network resources requires users to realize that any attempt to modify or extend resources could result in degradation of systems or performance elsewhere on the network. You must not disrupt routine operations by tampering with any hardware, networks, applications, system files or other users' files without authorization or permission; circumventing or altering software or physical protections or other restrictions placed on computers, networks, software, applications or files (other than your own files or applications you manage). Similarly, you may not make resources available to circumvent or alter software protections or other restrictions placed on computers, networks, applications or files (other than your own files).
   

2. Computer Accounts

   You must use only your own computer account(s), and may not attempt to impersonate the identities of others. You may not supply false or misleading data nor improperly obtain another's password in order to gain access to computers or network systems, data or information. The negligence or naiveté of another person in revealing an account name or password is not considered authorization of use. You should not use the convenience of file or printer sharing as justification for sharing a computer account. You must not attempt to subvert the restrictions associated with your computer accounts or network access.

3. Information Security-

   You are responsible and accountable for all use and security of the electronic resources you own or use, including but not limited to computer account(s), passwords, personal computer(s), electronic data, and network access. You should make appropriate use of the software, system and network-provided protection features and take precautions against others obtaining access to your computer resources. You are responsible for the security of all NetIDs, accounts and passwords assigned for your use. Passwords must never be shared. You are expected to abide by the Georgetown University University Information Security Policy.

4. Shared Resources

   You may not encroach on another's use of computer resources. Such activities would include, but are not limited to, tying up computer and network resources for illegally downloading or sharing music, movies, software or other files, or other non-University related applications; sending harassing messages; sending frivolous or excessive messages, including chain letters, junk mail, spam, and other types of broadcast messages, either locally or over the Internet; using excessive amounts of storage; launching attacks or probes, or otherwise attempting to subvert the security of any system or network at Georgetown University or on the Internet; intentionally or irresponsibly introducing any computer viruses, worms, Trojan Horses, spy ware, or other rogue programs to hardware, software, systems or networks at Georgetown University or on the Internet; or physically damaging systems.

5. Intellectual Property

   You are responsible for making use of software and electronic materials in accordance with copyright and licensing restrictions and applicable university policies. You may not use Georgetown University networks, equipment and software to violate copyright or the terms of any license agreement. No one may inspect, modify, distribute, or copy proprietary data, directories, programs, files, disks or software without proper authorization.

6. Publication

   You should remember that information you distribute through the University's web or other computing and networking facilities is a form of publishing and many of the same standards apply. For example, any web publication attributed to Georgetown, even with disclaimers, represents you and the University and appropriate language, behavior and style is warranted.

7. Personal Information

   You should be cautious about making information about yourself and others available on the Internet. The University cannot protect you from invasions of privacy, identity theft and other possible dangers that could result from the individual's distribution of personal information.

ADMINISTRATION AND IMPLEMENTATION:

ENFORCEMENT:

RESOURCE(S) AND OTHER APPLICABLE POLICIES AND PROCEDURES:

APPROVAL:

REVISION REVIEW AND APPROVAL:

Revision begun: October, 2004
Reviewed by the Information Services Management Council
Reviewed and approved by University Counsel April 22, 2005
Reviewed and approved in principle by the Computing Services Advisory Committee May 12, 2005
Revised: June 22, 2005
Approved by the Vice President for Information Services and CIO and University Counsel, June 22, 2005
Approved by the Vice President for Student Affairs, October 7, 2005
Approved by the Faculty Senate, December 14, 2005
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REVIEW CYCLE: