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| Downloading, trading, and uploading copyrighted music, movies and software is a hot issue with today's Internet. SUNY New Paltz is effected by this in several different ways, and has made the following policies and comments regarding (in particular) MP3 use and distribution. |
(1) Are MP3's banned at SUNY New Paltz?
No. MP3 is simply a file format for audio
and is not illegal.
(2) Is P2P (peer-to-peer) blocked at New Paltz?
No. P2P is a legal way of exchanging files
from person to person.
Programs such a Kazaa, Morpheus & Limewire by themselves
are not illegal either.
(3) Okay, but what is SUNY New Paltz's position
on MP3's and P2P?
Our position is simply to obey all applicable
laws regarding copyright.
(4) Is trading MP3's illegal?
Any unauthorized reproduction or transmission of copyrighted
materials is a violation of US copyright law. MP3's are often
digitally copyrighted material, so unless you have legal permission
to trade, use, or distribute a copyrighted material you are violating
the law.
(5) How can I tell if an MP3 is copyrighted?
When in doubt, assume that the material is copyrighted. You
should not distribute nor download any MP3 without the explicit
permission of the copyright holder.
(6) How can I trade MP3's legally?
First, you must obtain the explicit permission of the copyright
holder. That permission must be furnished upon demand. Please
note that a public statement by a copyright holder may not be
sufficent, as often copyrights are held by contract, not just
the specific musician.
(7) Where can I get information on copyright
law?
As always, legal issues are best resolved
by a lawyer or attorney.
If you're just interested in knowing the law, see the US copyright
office's web site at http://lcweb.loc.gov/copyright
(8) How do I report a copyright violation?
SUNY New Paltz has contact point for
Reporting Alleged Copyright Infringement. See http://www.newpaltz.edu/resnet/dmca.html
for more information.