This code is available online at Washington University Policy and Procedures , or you can get a copy by contacting the Judicial Administrator. These guidelines apply to electronic communication just as they apply to other forms of communication. There is also a Washington University Computer Use Policy available as a reference. The content of electronic communication should be treated in the same way as the content of other forms of communication. Yet, some perceived differences exist.
Electronic communication seems more ambiguous or anonymous than other forms.
Without a voice or face to associate with a message, electronic communication can be unclear. In forms of electronic communication where a message appears in text form, writing, reading and even typing skills can be factors in sending and receiving messages effectively. Additionally, the computing tools of electronic communication may be unfamiliar or difficult to understand. These characteristics of electronic communication often combine to make it seem different than other methods. However, there are cases where the sender of the message attempts to hide behind forged or anonymous identification.