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Responsible Computer & Software Use

Overview

At the College, we are committed to fostering a responsible, secure, and ethical computing environment for all students, faculty, and staff. This page outlines key expectations for the use of university-owned and personal devices when connected to FIU networks, including standards for legal software usage, network behavior, and digital accountability.

All guidelines and references here align with official FIU policies and are designed to promote academic integrity, protect sensitive data, and ensure compliance with federal, state, and institutional regulations.

Please note: This page serves as a summary of frequently cited policies and should not be considered a comprehensive list. All members of the FIU community are required to follow the full set of policies available at policies.fiu.edu.

Frequently Cited FIU Policies

Policy 1930.005
Application Software Resources: Purchasing, Licensing & Use

This policy ensures that only properly licensed and legally obtained software is installed, used, or distributed on FIU-owned systems.

View Policy

Policy 1930.020
Information Technology Security

This policy outlines the responsibilities of all FIU users to protect university IT resources, comply with cybersecurity standards, and avoid unauthorized or illegal use, including software piracy.

View Policy

Policy 1930.022
Sharing Access to IT Resources & Password Management

This policy outlines the responsibilities of all FIU users to protect university IT resources, comply with cybersecurity standards, and avoid unauthorized or illegal use, including software piracy.

View Policy

College Standards for Use:

Acceptable Use:

  • Use only licensed or university-provided software

  • Access university systems and networks for academic, research, or authorized work purposes

  • Keep devices updated with required antivirus, OS patches, and endpoint protection

  • Protect your passwords and do not share your login credentials

  • Use FIU email for official communications

  • Report suspected phishing, unauthorized access, or malware activity

  • Use university-approved cloud or storage services for academic files and backups

Prohibited:

  • Installing or using pirated or unlicensed software

  • Sharing passwords or logging in on behalf of someone else

  • Using FIU’s network or devices to download or distribute copyrighted media

  • Bypassing university security protocols or tampering with system restrictions

  • Connecting unauthorized devices (e.g., personal routers, IoT gadgets) to FIU’s network

  • Accessing, storing, or transmitting inappropriate, offensive, or illegal content

  • Ignoring software update notices or security prompts that protect your device and the network

Consequences of Violating Technology Use Policies:

First Violation (Minor or Unintentional)

  • You may receive a formal warning or copyright violation notice via your FIU email

  • Required to remove pirated or unauthorized software/content immediately

  • Network access (e.g., residence hall port) may be temporarily disabled

  • May need to sign and return a compliance acknowledgment form

Second Violation (Repeat or Severe Offense)

  • Network access revoked until compliance is verified

  • Required to meet with the Office of Student Conduct and Conflict Resolution

  • May also be referred to the Information Security Office for investigation

Ongoing or Major Violations (e.g., intentional piracy, hacking, fraud)

  • Referral for formal student conduct proceedings

  • Possible sanctions:

    • Disciplinary probation

    • Loss of access to campus systems or services

    • Suspension or expulsion, depending on severity

  • If laws are broken, the university may refer the matter to law enforcement

📌 Reminder

Violating FIU’s IT policies can have academic, legal, and financial consequences. Protect your digital reputation by using university systems ethically and in accordance with official policy.

References & Further Reading: