Purpose: The purpose of this document is to outline user responsibilities in the legal and ethical use of Whitworth computers in an effort to maintain confidentiality of data, files, computers and networks as well as protecting the proprietary rights of third parties and Whitworth in commercial software.

User Responsibilities: All users are to participate in assuring legal and ethical use of Whitworth computers and user accounts. Specific responsibilities include the following:

• Limit access to computers, data and programs for which the individual is authorized. Abide by existing channels and security provisions.
• Prohibit unauthorized access to others' data or programs with the intent to read, browse, modify or delete files, directories or data in any form.
• Prohibit illegal copying of commercial software.
• Prohibit the use of Whitworth computers or networks to compromise other computers or networks or to commit crimes or other unethical acts.
• Keep passwords and accounts confidential. Appropriate safety measures with regard to account access include the following:
  • Choose difficult to guess passwords.
  • Change passwords often.
  • Do not leave terminals unattended without logging out.
  • Never share your password with another person. If you suspect that your password is no longer confidential, change it immediately.
• Handle all data responsibly in accordance with published campus policies especially the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act. If in doubt about the confidentiality of data, do not release it until the right to release the data has been determined.
• Prohibit the introduction of public-domain or bulletin-board software on any Whitworth computer without prior approval by Information Systems.
• Abide by the Whitworth Computer Policy.

Any violation of the stated responsibilities regarding system security should be reported to Information Systems. All users are to participate in assuring legal and ethical use of Whitworth computers and user accounts. Violations of this policy may result in disciplinary action up to and including termination of employment or enrollment.

If you agree to these terms and wish to access Whitworth's computing systems, please select the "Agree" button.

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