CUNY Policy Regarding P2P File Sharing
CUNY’s Computer Use Policy requires users of CUNY computer resources to comply with copyright law. If you use a P2P program on a CUNY computer, network or other resource to upload or download copyrighted material without permission, you may be in breach of the Policy. According to the Policy, “Users of CUNY computer resources should generally assume that material is copyrighted unless they know otherwise, and not copy, download or distribute copyrighted material without permission unless the use does not exceed fair use as defined by the federal Copyright Act of 1976.”
The Policy also requires users of CUNY computer resources to engage in safe computing practices. P2P and file-sharing programs can introduce a serious security risk to your computer and other computers connected to the same network (e.g., CUNY) since they may result in files infected with computer viruses and spyware being downloaded to your computer and the network.
Violation of the Computer Use Policy may result in suspension or termination of your right of access to CUNY computer resources, disciplinary action by appropriate CUNY authorities, referral to law enforcement authorities for criminal prosecution, or other legal action, including action to recover civil damages and penalties. Violations will normally be handled through the University disciplinary procedures applicable to the relevant user. For example, alleged violations by students will normally be investigated, and any penalties or other discipline will normally be imposed, by the Office of Student Affairs.
Additional information is available at:
http://www.cuny.edu/about/administration/offices/la/copyright-materials/file-sharing.html