The overarching policy governing computing and networking at Brandeis University is based on federal laws for Copyright, Wire Fraud, Abuse and Child Pornography. Each school and department may have their own codes with regard to legal and ethical behavior, though in general all schools adhere to the following policies.
DISCLAIMER ON PERSONAL MATERIAL
Brandeis University provides access to a large number of conferences, lists, bulletin boards, Home pages, etc. Some may contain material which you may find objectionable. Brandeis University takes no responsibility for the content of these private entries, and has consciously decided not to censor any of these postings entered by individuals. Please be aware of the potentially offensive material found on various information systems and use the systems with the recognition that the University neither assumes responsibility for, nor endorses, any of the private content found herein.
Brandeis University reserves the right to amend this policy as it sees appropriate.
ETHICAL BEHAVIOR
Brandeis University subscribes to EDUCOM's policy on ethical behavior.
"Respect for intellectual labor and creativity is vital to academic discourse and enterprise. This principle applies to work of all authors and publishers in all media. It encompasses respect for the right to acknowledgment, right to privacy and right to determine the form, manner and terms of publication and distribution.
Because electronic information is volatile and easily reproduced, respect for the work and personal expression of others is especially critical in computer environments. Violations of authorial integrity, including plagiarism, invasion of privacy, unauthorized access, and trade secret and copyright violations, may be grounds for sanctions against members of the academic community."
Any intentional behavior with respect to the electronic environment that interferes with the missions or activities of the University or members of the University community will be regarded as unethical and may lead to disciplinary action under standard University rules for misconduct and existing judicial, disciplinary or personnel processes. Consult the standard faculty, staff or student handbooks and policies for further details on procedures.
The following activities are examples, but not an exhaustive list, of unethical behaviors with respect to the electronic environment:
* stealing, damaging or destroying the integrity of electronic information or systems;
* compromising the privacy of electronic networks or information systems;
* intentionally disrupting the use of electronic networks or information systems;
* theft of intellectual property not covered by the "fair use" clause in the Copyright Act;
* use of computer facilities to harass, threaten or violate the rights of others;
* any use of Brandeis University facilities for personal financial gain without permission;
* any use of Brandeis facilities for political mailing or political action that are interpreted to violate non-profit status.
Brandeis University reserves the right to amend this policy as it sees appropriate.
