IT Services Acceptable Use Policy

Miller Tech Services provides computing, networking, and information resources to MTS Clients, Users, and Staff.

MTS provides the MTS user base with access to local, national, and international sources of information in an atmosphere that encourages sharing of information, access to a rich collection of services, and open and free discussion for business purposes and other company-related uses.

For both your personal benefit and the benefit of others, you must assume responsibility for making the best possible use of your privileges and for not abusing them. All existing laws (federal and state) and MTS regulations and policies apply, including not only those laws and regulations that are specific to computers and networks, but also those that may apply generally to personal conduct.

Your Responsibilities

Computers and networks can provide access to resources on and off premises, as well as the ability to communicate with other users worldwide. Such open access is a privilege, and requires that individuals act responsibly. Users must respect the rights of other users, respect the integrity of the systems and related physical resources, and observe all relevant laws, regulations, and contractual obligations.

You are responsible for ensuring the integrity of your account. Miller Tech Services grants permission to users of the MTS community to use computing resources by issuing individual computing accounts including company logins. As a condition of receiving an account, you must observe the following guidelines:

• Respect the rights of other users, respect the integrity of the systems and related physical resources, and observe all relevant laws, regulations, and contractual obligations.
• Respect others’ rights to the privacy of their programs and data.
• Prevent others from learning your password, thus reducing the possibility of illegal use of your account by unauthorized persons.
• Report suspected unauthorized use of company resources via email to the IT ProDesk ([email protected]).
• Your company Logon may not be used for: unlawful activities; commercial purposes not under the auspices of the company; or personal financial gain (except as permitted under applicable company policies).

Consequences of Misuse

Misuse of computing, networking, or information resources may result in the loss of computing privileges. Additionally, misuse of a computing account will require financial restitution to Miller Tech Services for funds expended and could result in company disciplinary action or civil or criminal action.

Users may be held accountable for their conduct under any applicable MTS or Company policies, procedures, or collective bargaining agreements. Any actions which deter other users from doing their work or which would otherwise be deemed malicious by MTS will result in the loss of access to the system and possible Company disciplinary action or civil or criminal action. Unauthorized use of computing resources and use for personal gain constitute theft under Kentucky law and will be prosecuted by the Company.

Complaints alleging misuse of resources will be directed to those responsible for taking appropriate disciplinary action.

Definition/Examples of Misuse

The following list, while not exhaustive, characterizes unacceptable behavior which may be subject to disciplinary action:

• Use of any Company facilities in a manner that violates copyrights, patent protections, or license agreements.
• Use of any Company facilities for personal gain or profit, or for any type of commercial use.
• Attempts to gain unauthorized access to any information facility, whether successful or not. This includes running programs that attempt to calculate or guess passwords, or that are designed and crafted to trick other users into disclosing their passwords. It also includes electronic eavesdropping on communications facilities.
• Any violation of state law as described in the Penal Code.
• Any action that invades the privacy of individuals or entities that are the creators, authors, users, or subjects of information resources.
• Using electronic mail, talk or other programs as pranks or in a threatening or harassing manner.
• Misrepresenting in any manner, your identity, your account or a computer in an email or other electronic communication.
• Sending chain letters, advertisements, or solicitations of any type.
• Sending mass mailings to individuals who have not expressly agreed to be contacted in this manner.
• Posting on electronic bulletin boards materials that violate existing laws or the Company’s codes of conduct.
• Knowingly sharing access to IT Support Center services.
• Staying connected via modem for extended periods.
• Multiple simultaneous VPN sessions using a single Logon ID.
• Using the Company’s network to gain unauthorized access to any computer systems.
• Knowingly performing an act which will interfere with the normal operation of computers, terminals, peripherals, or networks.
• Knowingly running or installing on any computer system or network, or giving to another user, a program intended to damage or to place excessive load on a computer system or network. This includes but is not limited to programs known as computer viruses, Trojan horses, and worms.
• Attempting to circumvent data protection schemes or uncover security loop holes.
• Attempting to monitor or tamper with another user’s electronic communications, or reading, copying, changing, or deleting another user’s files or software without the explicit agreement of the owner.

Activities will not be considered misuse when authorized by appropriate MTS officials for security or performance testing.