Kicker

Because there are academic applications for peer-to-peer (P2P) file-sharing applications, Cumberland University does not ban them from its network as some universities have done. However, we recognize that most P2P activity consists of copying music and video files for personal enjoyment. If you participate in this kind of file-sharing activity, there are three things you should know:

In an environment where we share network resources, disproportionate use of those resources is not fair. P2P applications rank consistently as the highest bandwidth consumers at Cumberland University. That means other network activities such as academic research and file transfers are severely compromised as direct result of P2P activity. You can help avoid an all-out ban of P2P applications at Cumberland University by configuring and using your P2P application responsibly. Learn how to reconfigure your P2P application and read tips on responsible file sharing.

If you're caught violating Federal copyright laws, you will suffer the consequences. We are not the police; however, we will cooperate with the police and other agencies when required. There is increasing pressure on universities to take action against any and all copyright violations, especially those attributable to P2P. If you're unsure whether a shared file is copyrighted or not, assume it is.

P2P applications copy files from unknown sources to your computer, setting you up as an easy target for hacking or computer viruses. If you use a P2P application and you don't use anti-virus software, you're flirting with disaster.

Also, an increasing number of P2P applications are installing spyware. Spyware collects personal data about your Web surfing and other habits and sends that information to advertisers or other interested third parties. Some spyware causes computer problems such as blocked Internet connections. Protect your computer by understanding how spyware works.