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Peer-to-peer file sharing policy

Peer-to-peer file-sharing software applications are defined as programs that allow computers to share content in the form of music, movies, games, computer files, or software over a local network and the Internet without accessing a centralized distribution server or set of servers.

Erikson prohibits the use of peer-to-peer applications on its networks or IT resources to transmit or exchange any videos, music, software, images, or other copyright-protected content, unless the user has valid, written authorization to access and/or distribute such content. Any use of the IT resources in violation of this policy will be subject to discipline or sanctions in keeping with the applicable provisions of IT policies and other Erikson rules and policies.

To avoid the risk of copyright infringement, as well as possible exposure to viruses, unexpected material, or spyware, users should obtain materials through the many authorized Internet services that legitimately distribute copyrighted works online, whether music, ebooks, or motion pictures. For a list of authorized services, please contact the library staff.

Erikson expects that any use of its network and IT resources will be consistent with Erikson’s policies and compliant with applicable laws. Be aware that Erikson is required by the Department of Education and the 2008 Higher Education Opportunity Act to use a variety of technology-based methods to monitor and combat unauthorized use of its network and IT resources to distribute copyrighted materials in violation of the copyright owner’s rights.

Erikson is under no obligation to protect a user from a complaint or action arising from any violation, or alleged violation, of the law, including infringement of any intellectual property rights due to use of peer-to-peer, or any other type of “file-sharing,” software applications. Users should understand that the fact that material is accessible through the Internet does not mean that accessing and distributing such material is authorized by copyright-holders. Even when users pay for that access, they do not necessarily acquire the right to distribute the material to others.