Downloading Music and Videos
SecurityTip: Do not illegally download copies of music or videos!
Cal State L.A. takes copyright violations seriously. Illegal file-sharing and other copyright violations are a Violation of Title 5 of the California Code of Regulations. To protect both our students and network resources, the University constantly utilizes tools designed to detect and deter the transmission of large files. If these files were allowed to traverse the campus network, it would not only impact network traffic but also interrupt instructional programs and represent a misuse of scarce State-provided network bandwidth.
Online infringement of copyrighted music can be punished by up to 3 years in prison and $250,000 in fines. Repeat offenders can be imprisoned up to 6 years. Individuals may also be held civilly liable, regardless of whether the activity is for profit, for actual damages or lost profits, or for statutory damages up to $150,000 per infringed copyright.
When the University receives a notification of Unauthorized Sound Recordings from The Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), immediate action is taken. The notification includes specific information about the date, time, IP address, and port where the violation occurred. Information Technology Services (ITS) checks the usage logs for the username signed on to that port during the violation time period. The student’s email account may be immediately locked. When the student reports to the ITS Help Desk to request unlocking the account, they meet with the Director, IT Security and Compliance. The purpose is to counsel them about RIAA and prevent further occurrences and possible personal liabilities. Then the student’s account is unlocked.
If a second violation occurs, the matter is turned over to the Judicial Affairs Officer in the Division of Student Affairs for review and possible disciplinary action.
If the University receives a copyright violation notice concerning a faculty or staff computer, the matter is immediately turned over to Human Resources Management.