The University of Hong Kong Statement of Ethics on Computer Use

WHEREAS computer systems now form an integral part of instruction, research and administration at The University of Hong Kong, and

WHEREAS their use entails financial, legal and ethical considerations, and

WHEREAS there is minimal regulation over their use, and

WHEREAS computer use is a privilege not a right, and

WHEREAS the University is committed to the expansion of responsible computer use,

 

THE UNIVERSITY ADOPTS AND REQUIRES STRICT COMPLIANCE WITH THE FOLLOWING STATEMENT OF ETHICS ON COMPUTER USE.

This Statement of Ethics applies to all use of the computer system at The University of Hong Kong. The computer system means all computers owned, operated by or located on campus at the University, whether stand alone or networked and including all hardware, software and data.

Use of the computer system at the University is primarily for instructional, research or administrative purposes.

 

Authorized use means use pursuant to an individual logon identification, source of funds, password or user code and, in the case of stand alone computers, appropriate permission.

 

Where the computer system is utilized for outside consultation and direct practice, as distinct from general educational work within the meaning of the Terms of Service of the University, it shall be reported and an appropriate payment made.

 

Computer users shall not exceed their legitimate level of access or authority.

All computer use is, where applicable, also subject to the regulations governing the use of central computer services.

 

The use of the computer system at the University implies respect for and adherence to ethical standards designed to protect the integrity of the computer system. Therefore computer users agree not to engage or attempt to engage, in the following conduct; whether or not it entails the performance of any function by a computer:-

 

-

unauthorized access or use of the computer system regardless of any authorized subsidiary purpose;

-

deception, false use or impersonation of any other user's individual logon identification, source of funds, password or user code;

-

unauthorized modification of the computer system including deletion, alteration or destruction of computer data or programs or the introduction of computer viruses or other harmful input;

-

unauthorized modification of the contents of the computer system including any memory or other storage medium with a view to impairing the reliability of, or accessibility to, data stored or otherwise held in any computer.

Use of the computer system must not intrude upon the legitimate or convenient use of the system by others. Trivial applications such as excessive game playing, message sending, storage use, or outputting, constitute non-responsible use.

 

Responsible use entails accountability. All computer users are accountable for charges incurred on their respective accounts or sources of funds.

 

Computer users should follow security features of the system. Where a reasonable suspicion exists that either a breach of security has occurred, or is likely to occur, then the onus is upon the computer user to take appropriate measures including the notification of the breach to the Director of the Computer Centre.

 

The use of the computer system must be in a manner that preserves the confidentiality and privacy of others. Therefore, the reading or intercepting of, or the electronic eavesdropping on, any communication or data held on the computer system which is intended for another user, is a breach of these principles.

 

Where any breach occurs unintentionally, for example through miskeying or during the course of an authorized use, the use shall be discontinued at once.

 

Any subsequent disclosure of information obtained as a result of a breach of these principles, other than to the Director of the Computer Centre, shall constitute a breach of this Statement of Ethics.

 

This Statement of Ethics is in addition to the law on patents, trademarks, copyright, unfair competition, trade secrets and contract, as well as in addition to any prior restrictions in relation to copying, resale, non-educational use or otherwise.

 

The University assumes no responsibility for any infringing, or non-permitted, use.

 

Non-compliance with this Statement of Ethics shall constitute computer abuse. The Director of the Computer Centre shall take such action as he thinks appropriate, and shall report repeated and serious offences to the Computer Committee, which may recommend appropriate action by the University.