University Information Systems Use Policies
Version: 1.3.3
Last Updated: 3/24/06
University Computing and Communications Services
1.0 Introduction
Georgia State University's information systems are critical resources and play an integral part in the fulfillment of the university's objectives of teaching, research and extension of knowledge to the public. The Georgia State University Information Systems Use Policies provide guidelines for the access, use and protection of these resources.
2.0 Purpose
The purpose of this document is to summarize and provide in a single location all approved policies aimed at ensuring that the access, use and protection of the information systems promote the university's objectives. These policies will achieve the following principles:
- ensure that users abide by state and federal laws, as well as the policies of the university and the University System of Georgia;
- ensure that all individuals accessing or using the information systems assume responsibility for protecting these resources from unauthorized access, modification, destruction or disclosure;
- ensure the integrity, reliability and availability of the information systems; and
- ensure that individuals do not abuse the university's information systems and do respect the rights of members of the university community.
3.0 Scope
This document and the catalogued policies apply to students, and all university employees, including, but not limited to, faculty and staff. The policies also apply to all individuals, whether authorized or not, who use the university's information systems from any location. Use of the university's information systems, even when carried out on a privately owned computer that is not managed or maintained by the university, is governed by these policies.
4.0 Terms
User refers to any person, whether authorized or not, who makes any use of any information systems from any location.
Information systems includes, but is not limited to, computers, terminals, servers, printers, networks, data, modem banks, online and off-line storage media, access card systems, computer integrated telephony, other technology hardware, databases, data repositories, metadirectories and related equipment.
5.0 Compliance
Violations of these policies may result in the discipline of an individual in accordance with applicable University policies or state or federal law, including criminal prosecution. The university may temporarily suspend, block or restrict access to Information Systems when it reasonably appears necessary to do so in order to protect the integrity, security, or functionality of Information Systems or to protect the university from liability.
6.0 Reporting Violations
Alleged violations of the policies should be reported to the appropriate university disciplinary and/or law enforcement authorities. If the alleged violation could pose a security hazard to the university's technology resources, the alleged violation should also be reported to the university's Information Security Officer for appropriate action to secure the affected technology resources. When appropriate, the university disciplinary and/or law enforcement authorities will coordinate with the university's Information Security Officer to investigate and respond to alleged violations. Alleged violations of policies will be pursued in accordance with the appropriate disciplinary procedures for faculty, staff and students, as outlined in the Faculty Handbook, the Student Code of Conduct, and other applicable policies and procedures.
7.0 Appeals
Users found in violation of any of the catalogued policies may appeal any imposed disciplinary action in accordance with the appeals provisions of the relevant disciplinary procedures.
8.0 Administrative Procedures
This document and any of the catalogued policies may be changed by the Information Technology Senate Sub-Committee (ITSS), with such changes being reviewed and recommended through the Senate Information Systems and Technology Committee (ISAT). Information Systems and Technology (IS&T) will prepare, coordinate and process all recommended changes.
9.0 Policies
The following page represents the current Information System Use Policies Chart in practice at Georgia State University.