Information Technology
Additional Copyright Infringement ("FileSharing") Information

Sharing copyrighted works without the copyright owner’s permission, also known as file sharing, is illegal and a violation of University policy.  Copyrighted works may include songs, films, television shows, video game and other software, and other original creative works.  Copyright holders can find out exactly what files are shared from your computer through peer-to-peer file sharing programs like BitTorrent and Limewire, and many college students have paid thousands of dollars to settle civil suits brought by copyright holders.  Students have the responsibility to know the law and University policy on downloading and distributing copyrighted files.  Specific information is located at http://www.rochester.edu/it/security/yourself/file-sharing.html

Copyright infringement can result in civil and criminal penalties:

  • Civil: A copyright holder can sue to recover either (1) his actual damages (e.g., lost sales revenue) or (2) “statutory damages,” which generally can range from $750 to $30,000 per work (e.g. song) infringed, and up to $150,000 per work if the infringement is judged by a court to have been willful.  The infringer can also be required to pay the copyright holder’s attorney fees in addition to statutory damages.
  • Criminal:  a person who infringes copyright willfully either (1) for financial or commercial gain or (2) by reproducing or distributing works, during a 180-day period, with a total retail value of $1,000 or more, can face fines up to $100,000 and a prison term of up to one year.

Copyright infringement can result in University action separate from the legal ramifications above.  University action may include, but not be limited to, any one or more of the following:

  • Termination of user privileges
  • Disciplinary Probation
  • Community Restitution
  • Reconnection Fees
  • Suspension or Expulsion from the University of Rochester