All individuals covered under this policy have the responsibility to use Monroe College's computing and network facilities in an ethical, professional, and legal manner as well as in accordance with the College's mission. Civil discourse is at the heart of a College free from intimidation and harassment and based upon a respect for individuals and a desire to learn from others.

While debate on controversial issues is inevitable and essential,it is everyone's responsibility to do so in a way that advances the cause of learning and mutual understanding. This policy supports the principles of academic freedom. This means that users agree to abide by the following conditions:

• Use the College's computing facilities and information resources, including hardware, software, networks, and computer accounts, responsibly and appropriately. Respect the rights of other computing users, and respect all contractual and licensing agreements;
• Do not use computers or computer accounts which require authorization unless such use has been granted to you;
• The College's network and computer infrastructure is a finite resource. Use computer accounts for the purpose(s) for which they have been issued. Commercial use of the College's computing resources, not related to previously approved projects is prohibited;
• Be responsible for all computer accounts and for protecting each account's password;
• Report unauthorized use or abuse of your accounts to your supervisor, system administrator, or other appropriate authorities; and,
• During an investigation of a problem, cooperate with the IT department's requests for information about computing activities.

The following code addresses the responsible use of information and technology resources, violations of policy, and guidelines for effective use of technology resources. Individuals are also subject to federal, state and local laws governing many interactions that occur on the Internet. These policies and guidelines are subject to change as state and federal laws develop and change. Suggestions on these policies are welcomed and should be sent to the Chief Information Officer.

This policy applies to all non-students accessing the College's computing and network facilities. These persons include faculty, staff, persons retained to perform College work, and any other persons extended access and use privileges by the College.

Computing Violations

Examples of prohibited actions that are subject to disciplinary review include:

• Attacking the security of the system or failing to maintain the security of the system;
• Using obscene or abusive language in electronic communications;
• Using any computing resources to intimidate, insult or harass others; to interfere with an individual's work or educational performance; or to create an intimidating, hostile or offensive working/learning environment;
• Accessing or attempting to access another individual's data or information without proper authorization;
• Tapping phone or network lines;
• Use of network sniffers;
• Intentional release of a virus, worm, or other programs that damage or harm a system or network;
• Preventing others from accessing services;
• Modifying, divulging, damaging or destroying confidential information without authorization;
• Downloading or posting to computers, or transporting across the networks, material that is unlawful, proprietary, or in violation of contracts and policies;
• Malicious use of computing resources to damage the institution;
• Use of computing resources for partisan political objectives and/or campaign (not including the expression of personal political views, scholarly dialogue, or debate);
• Use of computing resources other than departmentally authorized material for solicitation; and/or,
• Violations of federal, state, or local laws.