Computer Use and Copyright Policies and Regulations Research Paper

Computer Use and Copyright Policies and Regulations - Research Paper Example Every single organization, educational institutes and businesses using computers has introduced certain policies and regulatory measures to keep the computer usage under control. The computer usage policy ideally defines certain goals and principals of the organization with respect to the computer systems. The basic principles that the policies are based upon are essentially the beliefs of the organisation like ethics, morality, values and philosophy. Generally every organization has a written set of rules also known as the Acceptable Usage Policy (AUP). These form a core part of the information technology security procedures and define what a user must do or not. It also in clear and concise manner defines the penalties that might be implemented if a user does not comply with the rules. Regular audits within the organizations ensure the compliance of the AUPs. The most important segment in every AUP is the code of conduct that regulates and controls the behaviour of a user while at work. It defines how one should conduct oneself while using the internet, permissible languages, prevent activities that might cause harm to the organization or any colleague, and ensure that there is complete data security and privacy. (Office of Information Technology, 2010). The AUP also defines the consequences that one might face incase the policies are violated or not adhered to. Non-compliance to the policies can lead to termination, suspension, or dismissal from educational institutes. There is another important factor apart from the computer usage policy that is relevant to most organizations and educational institutes; that being the copyright policy. Copyright is defined as exclusive rights granted by the Government to the creator or builder of something original and unique. (Quarterman, 1986). It prohibits anyone else from copying, imitating or using the contents for any other purpose, other than for what it was created or conceived. Organizations and institutes using co mputer technology incorporate the copyright policy as well to protect their work, study material, thesis etc. It is the user’s responsibility to ensure that they comply with the copyright laws and restrictions while using resources on the internet, journals or accessing databases. The copyright policy prohibits users from making copies of copyrighted material or software, non-compliance of which can lead to fatal outcomes. Both policies are equally important in any organization or educational institutes to maintain sanctity of work and data privacy, while permitting the employees and students to perform their duties properly. Institutes incorporating Computer Usage Policy American University (AU) established at Washington in the early 18th century remains a prestigious university. Moving along with changing time and period, it has ensured it remained in sync with the modern technologies and along with everything else, has incorporated the computer usage policy. The policy res tricts individuals from accessing any account, file or software that they don’t have the authorization for. All staff and students are given network access privileges, with unique access codes, that allow them to access all resources like the library, research materials, systems, networks and registered software’