What are the most common types of copyright infringements?
The most common complaints concern unauthorized distribution of copyrighted music and movies, although software is also frequently a basis for receipt of a complaint.
How can I avoid unknowingly violating copyright?
If you obtain free copies of music, a movie or software that is typically available for a fee in a store or over the Internet, it is VERY likely a violation of copyright laws. Conversely, if you subscribe to a file-sharing or peer-to-peer (p2p) service (e.g. Gnutella, Bearshare, KaZaA, LimeWire, etc.), by default the user agrees (whether knowingly or not) to offer up music or movie files stored on their computer. This is the same as setting up shop as a distributor of copyrighted material, without the copyright owner's permission--not a good position to take!
Who is notified when a copyright has been violated?
Typically, the copyright owner or the owner's officially designated agent sends an e-mail to East Carolina University with the details of what material is being compromised, by whom and the dates the activity was observed. In compliance with Federal laws (Digital Millennium Copyright Act) a university staff member researches the information to identify probable offenders, advise them to immediately cease the illegal activity and refers that information to the unit administrator.
What happens AFTER ECU has been notified of a copyright violation?
You will be contacted by ITCS regarding the copyright infringement complaint. If the infringement is not intentional (i.e., caused by a hacker or malware ) , a workstation support staff member will inspect your computer, remove the copyrighted material, and correct any problems related to the system compromise.
Willful violations will be reported to the appropriate unit administrators and, where applicable, the Office of the University Attorney and the Chief Information Officer.
Unauthorized use of copyrighted materials violates Federal laws, subjects the infringer to civil and criminal penalties, and is a violation of University policy.
Just how much trouble can a person get into over copyright infringement?
Unauthorized use of copyrighted materials violates Federal laws, subjects the infringer to civil and criminal penalties and, is a violation of East Carolina University's Academic Computer Use Policy. To date, the vast majority of copyright complaints have been handled exclusively by campus authorities. Regardless, copyright owners may also pursue civil and criminal legal remedies, if they so choose.
