File Sharing on ResNet (eduroam)

Tags wireless

Quick Links: | Overview | Is It Legal? | Legal Consequences | DMCA Notifications | Legal Alternatives |

Overview

Computers and the Internet offer many ways to access music, TV shows, and movies. While downloading this content can be convenient, it’s not always legal.

Below is guidance on how to obtain media legally and what happens if you download or share media illegally using eduroam. If you engage in illegal downloads, you risk legal action from media companies and potentially infect your device with malware, often embedded in pirated content.

Illegal file sharing also violates Title 5 of the California Code of Regulations and Chico State’s Acceptable Use Policy. If you are caught, your eduroam connection may be suspended, and disciplinary action may follow.

Is It Legal?

Downloading or sharing media using the following programs is likely illegal:

  • BitTorrent
  • uTorrent
  • LimeWire
  • Ares
  • eMule/eDonkey

Even if you're not actively downloading, these apps may automatically share media from your computer. Chico State strongly recommends you uninstall these programs.

Legal Consequences

Copyright holders may take any of the following actions, in any order:

  • Standard DMCA Violation Notice
    • A warning sent to the university, asking that the message be passed on to the user. Your eduroam access is blocked until you acknowledge the warning. You may also face Student Judicial Affairs review.
  • Pre-Settlement Letters
    • A message from groups like the RIAA or MPAA offering a settlement fee to avoid a lawsuit. If unpaid, they may sue.
  • Lawsuit
    • A civil lawsuit can result in large financial penalties and legal costs.

DMCA Notifications

What Happens When Chico State Gets a DMCA Notice:

  1. IT Support Services identifies the responsible computer.
    • The device is removed from the network.
    • An email is sent to the student’s Chico State email.
    • A copy of the notice goes to University Housing.
  2. The student sees a warning page when browsing.
    • They must read the warning.
    • They must click a button acknowledging they understand.
  3. Access is restored, and a confirmation email is sent to the student and the Resident coordinator.

Repeat Offenders

If the university receives a second notice for the same student, they will face disciplinary action and may be suspended from campus wireless indefinitely.

Legal Alternatives

Music

TV & Movies

 Still need help? Contact IT Support Services for further assistance.
  
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