The user community is expected to cooperate with the Information Technology Division of Mansfield University in its operation of computer systems and information networks, and in the investigation of misuse or abuse of the information resources. Should the security of a computer system or information network be threatened, suspect user files may be examined under the direction of the president of Mansfield University.

       Mansfield University's Information Technology staff acknowledge their responsibility to ensure the privacy of electronic communications on the campus. When technicians are exposed to private or privileged information in the course of routine systems management, they will take every reasonable precaution necessary to protect the privacy of that information.

    This policy is established in an effort to help users understand what is expected of them. It sets guidelines regarding the issues of privacy and respect for property, ownership of data, system security, and misuse of the system. Each individual who obtains a computer/email account, or uses the computers and network resources made available by Mansfield University, must understand that he or she is accountable for the policies set forth in this document.

Computer and network services are available to all faculty, staff, students, and guests of Mansfield University. To ensure access and service for all users, the following guidelines are provided:

 Avoid wasting computing or network resources.

 Not use information resources for commercial purposes without prior written approval from the Director of Information Technology.

 Use email responsibly to avoid congestion of the network. Do not send excessive email/attachments or messages locally or over the network such as chain letters, advertisements, or solicitations.

 Not engage in any act that may seriously impact the operation of computers, terminals, peripherals, or networks in a negative manner. This includes, but is not limited to, tampering with components of a local area network (LAN) or the high-speed backbone network, blocking communication lines, or interfering with the operational readiness of a computer. Examples of such acts include, but are not limited to, the operation of a server, the creation of unsanctioned personal web or ftp sites, the delivery of streaming audio or video, high bandwidth gaming, or high bandwidth video conferencing without the prior written consent of the Director of Information Technology.

Technology should not be used in a manner that infringes upon an individual's right to privacy. The following restrictions are imposed to protect the privacy of our users.

 Gaining or attempting to gain unauthorized access to information or resources that are private or protected.

 Running programs that attempt to identify passwords, weaknesses in the university system, or other security codes.

 Circumventing or attempting to circumvent data protection schemes or exploiting security loopholes. Report any breeches of system security to Information Technology. Do NOT demonstrate your ability to breech system security to anyone other than Information Technology personnel.

 Using another person's password or allowing others to use yours.

 Attempting to monitor another user's data communications or network traffic.

Each individual who obtains a computer/email account, or uses the computers and network resources made available by Mansfield University, must understand that he or she is accountable for the policies set forth in this document. In addition, there is a code of conduct expectation.

 Respect for the rights of others is imperative. Civil discussion is at the heart of a university community free of intimidation and harassment and based upon a respect for individuals as well as a desire to learn from others. While debate on controversial issues is inevitable and essential, bear in mind that it is the user's responsibility to do so in a way that actually advances the cause of learning and mutual understanding.

 Misuse of computing, networking, or information resources may result in the loss of computing privileges.

 The following type of information or software cannot be placed on any University-owned computer system or network:

 Users must not run or install on any of the computer systems, or give to another, a program that could result in the eventual damage to a file or computer system and/or the reproduction of itself. This is directed towards, but not limited to, the classes of programs known as computer viruses, Trojan horses, and worms.

 Users must not mask or attempt to mask the identity of the account or computer that they are using. For example, pointing a non-mnsfld.edu or non-mansfield.edu domain name at a host within Mansfield University's address space.

 Users are responsible for the security of their passwords. This includes changing passwords on a regular basis and making sure no one else knows them.

 Users are expected to:

• Check email often and delete unnecessary messages from the server immediately. If email is not attended to regularly, the system administrator may remove messages.
• Report unauthorized use of his/her account.
• Frequently make backup copies of his/her work and store them securely to ensure against loss.
• Not use information resources to harass another person.
• Clearly label works and opinions as his/her own before they are widely distributed.
• Abide by the terms of all software licensing agreements and copyright laws.

Faculty, staff, students, and guests of Mansfield University who provide their own computer and equipment but connect to the University's network must still abide by all aspects of the Acceptable Use Policy. In addition, there are several special areas for these users to keep in mind:

Domain names: A non-mnsfld.edu or non-mansfield.edu domain name may not point at a host within Mansfield University's address space, unless that domain is being used by a recognized university organization, and is approved by the Information Technology Division. Mansfield University's address space consists of all IP addresses starting with 157.62. Users connecting to Mansfield University's network are assigned an IP within our address space for their academic use. Users may not alternately register their IP address with any name other than Mansfield University's official registered names. For example, user XYZ, given IP address 157.62.99.99, may not identify that IP as xyz.com or funtimes.net, etc.

Responsibility for content: The content of any files or services made available to others over the network is the sole responsibility of the person with ownership of and/or administrative authority over the computer providing the service. It is this person's responsibility to be aware of all applicable federal and state laws, as well as university policies. This person will be liable for any violations of these laws and policies.

Network-intensive applications: Any person operating a network-intensive application or a defective computer, which causes network overload, will be notified and steps will be taken to protect other users and the university network overall. This may include disconnecting the offending computer system from the network until the problem is resolved. If the condition is an imminent hazard to the university network or disrupts the activities of others, then the offending computer system or the subnet to which it is attached may be disabled without notice. This latter course of action may affect other users connected to the network.

Responsibility for security: Any person attaching a computer to Mansfield University's network is responsible for the security of the computer system and for any intentional or unintentional activities from or to those network connections.

Examples of illegal acts include: (i) accessing, altering, or damaging any computer system, network, software or data base, or any part thereof, with the intent to interrupt the normal functioning of an organization; (ii) disclosing a password to a computer system or network, knowingly and without authorization; and (iii) the intentional and unauthorized access to a computer, interference with the operation of a computer network, or alteration of computer software. The first of the above offenses is a felony under Pennsylvania law and is punishable by a fine up to $15,000 and imprisonment for up to seven years [18Pa.C.s.3933(a)(1)]. The latter two offenses are misdemeanors that are punishable by fines up to $10,000 and imprisonment for up to five years [18Pa.C.s.3933(a)(2) and (3)].

The Information Technology Division of Mansfield University may access other's files for the maintenance of networks, computers, and storage systems. In all cases, the individual's right to privacy will be respected to the greatest degree possible. Information Technology has the responsibility to protect the rights of users as well as protecting the integrity of our information resources. They have the authority to limit or refuse further access to anyone who violates this policy, or by their actions, threaten the rights of other users. In this regard, Information Technology will make a reasonable effort to notify users affected by any such decisions. If offenses are serious enough to warrant disciplinary action, they shall be referred to the appropriate office of the University.