IT Help Desk and Online Learning Support

Acceptable Use Policy

Introduction

The Acceptable Use Policies (AUP) outlined below are designed to ensure that information technology (IT) resources at Blackfeet Community College are used in an ethical, lawful, and responsible manner. These policies apply to all students, faculty, staff, and any other individuals who have access to the college's IT resources.

General Use and Ownership

• Compliance: Users must comply with all applicable federal, state, and tribal laws, as well as established college policies and procedures.
• Authorization: Access to IT resources is a privilege granted by the college and must be treated with the highest level of responsibility.
• Ownership: The college owns all data created, stored, and transmitted using its IT resources.

Security and Privacy

• Confidentiality: Users must respect the privacy and confidentiality of other users' information. Unauthorized access, use, or distribution of others' data is prohibited in accordance with Family Educational Rights Protection Act (FERPA). 
• Password Protection: Users are responsible for maintaining the confidentiality of their passwords and accounts. Sharing of login credentials is strictly forbidden.
• Security Measures: Users must adhere to all security measures and protocols implemented by the college to protect IT resources.

Acceptable Use

• Educational and Professional Use: IT resources should primarily be used for educational purposes, professional development, and administrative functions directly related to the college's mission, functions and activities.
• Incidental Personal Use: Limited personal use of IT resources is permissible, provided it does not interfere with college operations or violate any policies.
• Prohibited Activities: The following activities are strictly prohibited:
• • Unauthorized access to or use of IT resources.
  • Use of IT resources for commercial purposes or personal financial gain.
  • Dissemination of offensive, obscene, or harassing materials.
  • Engaging in illegal activities, including software piracy and the distribution of copyrighted materials without permission.
  • Introduction of malicious software or any activities that could harm the integrity or performance of IT resources.

Network Use

• Network Integrity: Users must not interfere with or disrupt network services, including the propagation of viruses, malware, or excessive bandwidth usage.
• Proper Configuration: Personal devices connected to the college network must comply with college security standards and configurations.

Email and Communication

• Official Communications: College email accounts should be only used for official communications. Personal email accounts should not be used for conducting college business.
• Appropriate Use: Email and other communication tools must not be used for harassment, threats, or transmitting inappropriate content.

Monitoring and Enforcement

• Monitoring: The college reserves the right to monitor IT resource usage to ensure compliance with all established policies and procedures.
• Violations: Violations of the AUP may result in disciplinary action, including suspension of IT privileges, disciplinary review, and potential legal action.

Reporting

• Incident Reporting: Users must report any security incidents, policy violations, or suspicious activities to the IT department immediately.

Conclusion

By using Blackfeet Community College IT resources, users agree to comply with these Acceptable Use Policies. The college reserves the right to modify these policies as necessary to address emerging issues and ensure the responsible use of IT resources.