Internet Service

Downloading - Students are permitted to download programs, software, and other files on their computers, but they must be aware of and abide by federal copyright laws. Students are encouraged to visit the RIAA and MPAA websites (www.riaa.org and www.mpaa.org) to obtain information on the prohibitions related to downloading/sharing music and movies. Illegal downloading/file sharing is strictly prohibited in the residence halls. 

Protection from Legal Action over Downloading 

Do you use your personal computer to share music, movies, or software over the Web? Did you know that you may be violating federal copyright law? 

Penalties for copyright infringement include civil and criminal penalties. In general, anyone found liable for civil copyright infringement may be ordered to pay either actual damages or "statutory" damages. For more information, please see the Web site of the U.S. Copyright Office at www.copyright.gov, especially their FAQ's at https://www.copyright.gov/help/faq/. 

Although there are legitimate uses for file‐sharing and peer‐to‐peer technologies, please be aware that your Code of Student Rights, Freedoms, and Responsibilities and the RESNET/GiG Telecom Terms of Service prohibit the use of the network for copyright infringement or software piracy. And when you register your machine on the RESNET/GiG Telecom network, or connect to the campus wireless, you are responsible for the use of your computer and your connection. 

If we receive a complaint identifying your computer as sharing copyrighted materials, you’ll receive a notification from GiG Telecom asking that you remove the offending materials and software. Repeat offenses may result in loss of campus network privileges.

The RIAA and MPAA Web sites have information about their current activities and some background on why they are working to prevent the theft of creative content. They can be found at www.riaa.org and www.mpaa.org. But there’s some good news ‐ there are legal alternatives! A list of some legal sources of online content can be found at http://www.educause.edu/legalcontent. Have a productive semester and help us keep your name off the copyright offenders list.