Safe & Secure Computing
File Sharing and Copyright
Over the past few years, file-sharing - i.e., the sharing of files over peer-to-peer (P2P) networks - has become a popular way for people to sample and gather music, movies, and video games. File-sharing, however, can have a number of risks. For example, when you are connected to file-sharing programs, you may unknowingly allow others to copy private files you never intended to share. You may download material that is protected by copyright laws and find yourself mired in legal issues. You may also download a virus or facilitate a security breach.
The Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA) of 1998 addresses copyright liability as it pertains to electronic forms of original works. With the law behind them, movie, music, and software companies are taking aggressive action. Organizations representing these industries, such as the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), are actively monitoring the Internet for illegal distribution of copyrighted material.
It is a serious violation of MSU's Statement of Acceptable Use and Federal law to share copyrighted files from your computer. If Michigan State receives a notice that you have been sharing copyright files from your computer system you will likely lose access to the campus network and may face additional disciplinary action up to and including suspension.
When you download or share copyrighted material without the owner's permission, you are breaking the law. But there are many legal alternatives that allow you access to songs and movies. To avoid being prosecuted or sued for copyright infringement explore legal alternatives available.
5 Steps to Secure Computing
We encourage you to practice safe computing by protecting your computer from security dangers such as viruses, worms, spyware, intrusions, and other system vulnerabilities. Safe computing helps protect individual privacy, prevent identity theft, and protect computers and files from being damaged or lost.
- 1. Turn on a Personal Firewall
- Connecting to the Internet opens your computer to attacks which could steal passwords, credit card numbers, or destroy data. Turn on your personal firewall to block attacks.
- Search help.msu.edu for
firewall
. - 2. Install Anti-Virus Software
- Anti-virus software protects your system from viruses and other malware. Schedule daily anti-virus updates and scans of your computer. Anti-virus software may be purchased at the MSU Computer Store.
- Search help.msu.edu for
antivirus
. - 3. Install Anti-spyware
- Spyware can capture your personal information and transmit it to criminals. Make sure your anti-virus product fights spyware; if it doesn't, install a good anti-spyware tool.
- Search help.msu.edu for
spyware
. - 4. Update System & Security Patches
- Set your computer to automatically install the latest patches to your operating system and other applications. In Windows, use Windows Update. On a Mac, use Software Update.
- Recommended Downloads and Patches from help.msu.edu.
- 5. Protect Your Passwords
- Your NetID and password define your online identity at MSU. Guard your passwords as you guard your bank card PIN. Never share them with anyone or store them in obvious locations such as sticky notes, in your desk, or under your keyboard.
- Search help.msu.edu for
passwords
.
