For this policy, software is any owned, used or created within the scope of the instructional and administrative operations of the University. Removing software packages from labs or offices or other places of storage without permission, or installing where not authorized by University personnel. Acquiring without permission someone else s systems disks programs, files, notes, or designs, from their place of storage or disposal. For purpose of this definition, it does not matter whether the software materials obtained were complete, working, preliminary, or discarded. Unauthorized Access Unauthorized access is gaining access into any computer, network, storage medium, system, program, file, user area, or other private repository where software may reside, without the express permission of the owner.
Unauthorized access is the same as theft.
Software Vandalism Vandalism is any willful and unauthorized tampering or contamination introduced which potentially or actually causes alteration, disabling, or destruction of software or hardware belonging to another. In general, the degree of vandalism will be judged not by the original intent or apparent innocence of the tampering, but by the potential scope and severity of damage, regardless of actual damages. Vandalism also includes the willful introduction of computer viruses or any parasitic or self-propagating programs into files, systems, or networks. This applies whether done personally or through others. In the case of virus vandalism, the incident will be treated as though it were a case of extensive and malicious damage, regardless of the degree of the actual damages incurred.