Princeton University Information Technology Policy

The Princeton University Information Technology Policy (the “Policy”) is the central information technology policy document for Princeton University. Departments and offices of the University that create specialized computing or network policies for their constituencies must work with the University's Office of Information Technology (OIT) before doing so in order to ensure that such specialized policies are consistent with, and not in conflict with, the Policy. Once approved, such specialized policies will be cross-referenced in future editions of the Policy.

In addition, Princeton's technological and information resources and the access provided by the University to global networks and networked resources are therefore governed by the general policies and rules set forth in Princeton University Rights, Rules, Responsibilities. For example, policies and rules set forth in RRR that apply to property, privacy, civility and publication in the physical sense also apply to those areas when they involve computers or mobile devices; when they entail use of, or publication via, the World Wide Web or Internet, message boards, wikis and other “social networks” or "chat rooms;" when they consist of e-mail, texting, tweeting or instant messaging; when they involve participation in virtual reality environments, or whether the technology involved is something like the campus voice-mail, or locally-produced and broadcast video.

Some rules for appropriate use of the University's information resources and technologies derive from legal considerations. For example, the University must ensure that its non-profit status with the Internal Revenue Service is not compromised by inappropriate political campaign or commercial activity. The University must also address actions that may violate its agreements with outside vendors.

The University is a "carrier" of information via electronic channels rather than a "publisher" and hence, except with regard to official University publications, not expected to be aware of, or responsible for, material or communications that individuals may post, send, or publish via the World Wide Web, Internet discussion groups, or social networks; make available via any file-sharing method, or send via e-mail, tweeting or instant messaging; or any actions taken by individuals’ avatars within on-line virtual reality environments. However, under certain circumstances, the University may be required to respond to complaints regarding the nature or substance of such materials or communications.

The examples presented in this publication focus on matters related to the technologies, but derive their broader meaning and significance from the basic rights, rules and responsibilities that apply to all aspects of the University community. The examples are illustrative, not exhaustive. If something is not specified in the Policy as inappropriate, it still may transgress University regulations if it violates the principles set forth in Rights, Rules, Responsibilities. It is important to use common sense and critical thinking in evaluating new situations.

Because the technology changes so rapidly, and the human imagination is boundless in exploring what technology can do, this Policy must and will continue to evolve. In addition, the University's Rights and Rules Committee is charged with the task of revising the code in Rights, Rules, Responsibilities, and any changes approved by the Council of the Princeton University Community (CPUC) could affect the language of this Policy.