Users of e-mail are required to be ethical and responsible in their use.
Electronic mail is one of the most used and useful facilities on computer networks.
To ensure maximum benefits from e-mail, a clear, defined balance between the need for open communication and the protection of the university's assets is critical. The purpose of this policy is to encourage use of e-mail as an effective and efficient tool within the framework of the appropriate Minnesota and federal laws, University policies and rules and other necessary restrictions which apply even if they are not specifically mentioned in this policy. For example, employees should bear in mind the responsibility of the Statewide Electronic Communication and Technology Ethics Policy, and the terms of any other applicable standard of conduct. Although the University does not routinely monitor all messages, it does have the authority, at any time, to inspect the contents of any University equipment, files, or mail on it's system for any legitimate business, legal or disciplinary purpose. Employees should bear in mind that this construction may apply even to e-mails that contain, for example, personal remarks.