Purpose:
The
purpose of this statement is to set forth University policy with regard
to the unauthorized downloading and distribution of copyrighted
material over the University's computing and information technology
resources.
Preamble:
The
Higher Education Opportunity Act of 2008 requires that
certain
universities comply with specific anti-piracy provisions directed at
the unauthorized downloading and distribution of copyrighted material
over college and university computer networks.
Policy Statement:
The University shall, at least annually, inform students that
the unauthorized distribution of copyrighted material, including
peer-to-peer file sharing, may subject them to criminal or civil
liability and to discipline under the University's Student Code of
Conduct. The annual advisory shall include, as a minimum, the
following information:
| a. | A
summary of the
penalties for violation of federal copyright laws. |
||
| b. |
A
review and description of University policies regarding unauthorized
peer-to-peer file sharing utilizing the University's computing and
information technology resources. |
||
| c. |
A
review of the deterrents put in place by the University to combat the
unauthorized distribution of copyrighted material. |
||
| d. |
A review of alternatives to illegal downloading that are offered by the University. |
Implementation:
This
policy shall be included in the WSU Policies and Procedures Manual
and shared with appropriate constituencies of the University.
The Chief Information Officer shall have primary responsibility for publication, dissemination and implementation of this University policy.
Effective Date:
January 1, 2009