ATHENS, Ohio (Feb. 23, 2007) -- Kent Smith, vice president for Student Affairs, today reminded all Ohio University students that illegal file sharing is against university policy and the university will continue to take action against those who engage in it.
Recently, the Recording Industry Association of America released numbers that show it has sent Ohio University more than 1,200 notices this academic year about users of the campus network illegally downloading copyrighted music.
"Ohio University's policies forbid illegal downloading and sharing of copyrighted materials," Smith said. "This is a Code A offense under the student code of conduct. Simply put, this is a form of stealing and a prohibited use of the university's computer network.
"I believe the majority of Ohio [University] students are working responsibly to pursue their educational goals," Smith said. "To those who are violating law and policy, I urge you to stop immediately and to delete all illegal files from your computers."
The university's computer staff will continue to shut off network access to residence halls and other locations where illegal downloading is taking place.
In addition, computer security staff will now inform University Judiciaries when access is shut off. Staff in that office will follow up with the individuals involved.
Smith also announced that he is forming a task force of students and staff members to develop recommendations for additional ways that the university can educate users and prevent this illegal practice. He will ask the group to complete its work by the end of the winter quarter.
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Media Contact: Acting Senior Director of Media Relations Sally Linder at 740-597-1793 or linders@ohio.edu
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