Recommended Guidelines for Responsible Computing at the University of Delaware
(Draft – September 21, 1991)

Prepared by staff in Computing and Network Services,
University of Delaware

• 1.Preface
• 2. Definition of Terms
• 3. Policy for Responsible Computing Use at The University of Delaware
• 4. User Responsibilities
• 5. System Administrator Responsibilities
• 6. Misuse of Computing and Information Resource Privileges
• 7. User Confidentiality and System Integrity
• 8. Penalties for Misuse of Computing and Information Resource Privileges
• 9. Academic Honesty
• 10. Works Consulted

3. Policy for Responsible Computing Use at The University of Delaware

In support of its mission of teaching, research, and public service, the University of Delaware provides access to computing and information resources for students, faculty, and staff, within institutional priorities and financial capabilities.

All members of the University community who use the University’s computing and information resources must act responsibly. Every user is responsible for the integrity of these resources. All users of University-owned or University-leased computing systems must respect the rights of other computing users, respect the integrity of the physical facilities and controls, and respect all pertinent license and contractual agreements. It is the policy of the University of Delaware that all members of its community act in accordance with these responsibilities, relevant laws and contractual obligations, and the highest standard of ethics.

Access to the University’s computing facilities is a privilege granted to University students, faculty, and staff. Access to University information resources may be granted by the owners of that information based on the owner’s judgment of the following factors: relevant laws and contractual obligations, the requestor’s need to know, the information’s sensitivity, and the risk of damage to or loss by the University.

The University reserves the right to limit, restrict, or extend computing privileges and access to its information resources. Data owners – whether departments, units, faculty, students, or staff – may allow individuals other than University faculty, staff, and students access to information for which they are responsible, so long as such access does not violate any license or contractual agreement; University policy; or any federal, state, county, or local law or ordinance.

Computing facilities and accounts are owned by the University and are to be used for the University-related activities for which they are assigned. University computing resources are not to be used for commercial purposes nor non-University-related activities without written authorization from the University. In these cases, the University will require payment of appropriate fees. This policy applies equally to all University-owned or University-leased computers.

Users and system administrators must all guard against abuses that disrupt or threaten the viability of all systems, including those at the University and those on networks to which the University’s systems are connected. Access to information resources without proper authorization from the data owner, unauthorized use of University computing facilities, and intentional corruption or misuse of information resources are direct violations of the University’s standards for conduct as outlined in the University of Delaware Policy Manual, the Personnel Policies and Procedures for Professional and Salaried Staff, the Faculty Handbook, and the Official Student Handbook and may also be considered civil or criminal offenses.

The University of Delaware treats access and use violations of computing facilities, equipment, software, information resources, networks, or privileges seriously. Disciplinary action resulting from such abuse may include the loss of computing privileges and other sanctions including non-reappointment, discharge, dismissal, and legal action – including prosecution under Title 11, 1931 – 1939 of the Delaware Code, the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act of 1986, or other appropriate laws. May 31, 1991

Go to: 4. User Responsibilities

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