The U.S. Department of Education has issued new regulations regarding the distribution of copyrighted materials such as songs, games and videos through uploads and downloads over computer networks. The regulations are focused on combating the unauthorized, illegal distribution of copyrighted materials via Peer-2-Peer file sharing networks.
Higher education institutions are now required to develop and implement plans to deter the unauthorized sharing and distribution of copyrighted materials. The information in these Articles and FAQ sections detail elements of ECSU's plan including:

• Information about legal and illegal methods of sharing copyrighted materials
• The significant penalties associated with copyright violations
• Statutory fines within a range of $750.00 - $150,000.00 per infringement.
• Possible University sanctions: any of the following or any combination of the following: expulsion, suspension, disciplinary probation, disciplinary warning, residence hall separation, residence hall probation and residence hall warning.

How you will be identified if your computer is used to illegally share copyrighted materials: You are not anonymous on the network.

Please review and become familiar with the materials in these related articles and the FAQs below:

• What is P2P or Peer 2 Peer file sharing?
• What is copyright infringement?
• What are the consequences of illegally sharing videos and songs?
• How Does Eastern Respond illegal file sharing?
• How can I legally share copyrighted materials?
• How can I acquire legal copies of songs and videos?