File Sharing

As an internet service provider, the University of Colorado at Boulder is legally required to respond to notifications of copyright violations that occur on its network.

To address specifically issues of illegal file-sharing, the campus has

adopted a three strikes procedure for addressing copyright violations, which includes a mandatory educational component for repeat offenders (see the Quiz on this site)
provided guidelines that interpret Section C.7.c of the Use of CU-Boulder's Computing and Network Resources policy, which covers prohibitions of using the network in violation of federal, state, and local laws
embarked on an extensive educational campaign to raise awareness about the illegality of downloading and sharing copyrighted materials without permission.

This file sharing section of the campus's copyright web site includes those resources, as well as an advice column for students interested in file sharing issues (see Ask Ms. Copycat), and an information page for the press (see Press FAQs).

Materials about file sharing issues, including this website, were created by a committee of faculty, staff, and students during summer 2003. The campus extends its gratitude to the entire committee for their work, insights, and expertise.