Copyright Infringement and Peer-to-Peer File-Sharing
Downloading, copying or using unauthorized copies of music, movies, TV shows or other media can violate federal copyright laws. It is also prohibited by Boston University’s Code of Student Responsibilities and the Conditions of Use and Policy on Computing Ethics. The University’s Annual Notice and BU Information Security outline the University’s position on this issue.
Copyright owners, including many large media companies, enforce their rights under the Copyright Act by filing lawsuits against individuals accused of downloading content illegally. The University’s Copyright Violation Policy explains how the University addresses allegations of illegal file-sharing, including through internal education efforts and disciplinary sanctions.
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Consequences
Beyond the Basics
The Basics
- DO consider the source when you download music, movies or TV shows. If you don’t recognize the source, it may contain infringing materials.
- DO use legal sources, which are plentiful and relatively inexpensive. A few well-known examples include iTunes, Amazon Music, Pandora, Netflix and Hulu.
- DO disable peer-to-peer clients likely to result in illegal file-sharing.
Still have questions?
Below you can find contact information and links to team sites.
Compliance Services
Email Compliance Services or call 617-358-8090 if you aren’t sure where to start, or for questions concerning compliance with laws or policies about credit cards and financial account numbers.
Dean of Students
The Dean of Students can answer questions about the Code of Student Responsibilities and its enforcement.
Information Services and Technology
IS&T can answer questions about BU’s copyright violation notification process.