Rules for use of P2P file exchange software in Okayama University

1. Aim
These rules outline the details for measures to prevent illegal acts, including illegal literary piracy, while using computers and network resources at Okayama University.

2. Definition
In these rules, P2P (peer to peer) is defined as a program which can exchange a file between many unspecified persons using a network.
(2) In these rules, an "illegal act" refers to the illegal exchange of digital contents protected by copyright, such as music and image data and application software, using P2P software such as WinMX and Winny while using a PC connected to the network.

3. Prohibitions for use
In Okayama University, use of P2P software is decided to be prohibited in principle. However, use is accepted only when the student or the staff in the university uses it in order to carry out education, research and work.

4. Use procedure
Those who wish to use P2P software in the university must submit a "P2P software use application (written in Japanese)" form (attached sheet) to the Okayama University Information Technology Center.
(2) Where an application for use has been made, the Center Chief will determine the outcome of the request and notify the applicant.
(3) A list of restricted P2P software will be published by the Center Chief on the Center webpage.
(4) If P2P software not on the list becomes restricted software, all users must suspend their use of this software immediately, or submit a "P2P software use application" form to the Center.

5. Surveillance of the network and prohibiting use
To prevent unjustified use of those networks which use P2P software, communication restrictions such as packet filtering and surveillance of traffic may be performed by the Center.
(2) If illegal use of the network is apparent, the Center will inform the fact to the subnetwork administrator, center steering committee, and the bureau chief of departments.
(3) Departments which receive notification of the preceding clause must immediately investigate the illegal acts and deal with them under the responsibility of the subnetwork administrator.
(4) The Center can apply a network prohibition to any user who illegally acts contrary to university laws, such as the use of P2P software without permission.

6. Punishment
If illegal exchange of files are performed on the network, the user may be punished based on the regulation of the 58th article of the Okayama University school regulations (Heisei 16 Okayama University rule No. 2), the 49th article of the Okayama University graduate school regulations (Heisei 16 Okayama University rule No. 3), and the 67th article of the Okayama University personnel work rules (Heisei 16 Okayama size rule No. 10).

7. Miscellaneous rules
Any other issues regarding use of P2P software may be defined elsewhere.
Addendum

These rules are enacted from 1 February 2005.