File Sharing Applications and Copyright
All students, faculty and staff,
Once again we are writing to ask for your cooperation on a matter that concerns the entire James Madison University community. In the past, behavior by some members in our community caused problems that harm all of us. Widespread use of internet file sharing applications including peer-to-peer programs such as LimeWire KaZaA, and BitTorrent, resulted in severe congestion on the JMU campus network, denying effective Internet access for others. When that happens teaching, learning, research and service functions all suffer. In addition to adversely affecting network traffic flow, inappropriate use of file sharing programs to exchange copyrighted songs, movies, software and games carries legal risk.
Many campuses have taken aggressive steps to deal with problems associated with file sharing. Examples include invasive content scans, cutting off Internet access at the first sign of inappropriate behavior and working with the recording industry to pursue legal remedies. We have resisted such aggressive measures. Instead, in a tradition of promoting individual responsibility within the university community, JMU relies heavily on students, faculty and staff to behave responsibly. We count on your commitment and we expect you to honor JMU policies and applicable laws.
However, we are prepared to deal expeditiously and directly with those who abuse this trust by using the university's information technology resources inappropriately. When possible violations of copyright law are brought to our attention, we have no choice but to contact those involved and ask them to remedy the problem. Failure to respond to such a request will be handled in a manner consistent with existing JMU policies and consequences can be serious.
Please do your part by informing yourself about JMU policies, educating others and demonstrating responsible behavior that respects the rights of fellow students, faculty and employees as well as the rights of copyright owners.
For details on applicable JMU policies see:
- JMU Policy 1207: Appropriate Use of Information Technology Resources
- JMU Student Handbook
- JMU Classified Employee Handbook
- JMU Faculty Handbook
Thank you for your cooperation.
Ralph Alberico
Dean of Libraries & Educational Technologies
Dale Hulvey
AVP for Information Technology