Student Acceptable Use Guidelines for College Computing Resources

Introduction

Edgecombe Community College (ECC) provides academic computing resources to support its vision, mission, and goals. Users of these resources must comply with all policies covering access and appropriate use.

General Acceptable Use Principles

  • User accounts are non-transferable. Do not share login credentials or allow others to access your account. You are solely responsible for all activity on your account, including protecting your password and ensuring no unauthorized or inappropriate access occurs.
  • Users must adhere to all local, state, and federal laws, as well as College policies.
  • Users must not download, share, or distribute copyrighted or unauthorized materials or software.
  • Creating, accessing, or transmitting any content that contains threats, discrimination, obscenities, or harassment is prohibited. This includes offensive language, or derogatory materials related to race, gender, or other protected characteristics.
  • The use of College information technology resources to access, distribute, or store pornographic material is strictly prohibited under Section 7 of S.L. 2024-26.
  • Users are prohibited from engaging in mass mailing or sending unsolicited commercial advertising using any College computing resources.

Network and System Security

  • Unauthorized access to any College system is prohibited. Do not attempt to access, modify, or damage data, records, or systems.
  • Do not attempt to hack or bypass network security mechanisms.
  • Do not download, install, or run security programs or utilities that reveal or exploit security weaknesses.
  • Use College resources only for their intended educational purposes. Do not engage in activities that could degrade performance, deprive others of access, or bypass restrictions.

Guest Wireless Network Use

  • Personal devices may connect only to the “ECCGuest” Wi-Fi network.
  • Permitted activities include web browsing, email, and low-bandwidth online usage.
  • It is recommended to maintain security protection, such as anti-virus/anti-malware software, and ensure that operating systems and applications on personal devices are regularly updated with the latest patches.
  • The College is not liable for any damage resulting from the use of networks or systems.
  • All other acceptable use policies apply.

Computer Lab Use

  • Food, drinks, and disruptive behavior are not allowed.
  • Do not store personal data on lab computers.
  • Unauthorized changes to computer configurations or software are not allowed.
  • All other acceptable use policies apply.

Privacy and Confidentiality

Users should have no expectation of privacy in their use of Edgecombe Community College’s computing resources. The College may monitor and record usage to ensure compliance with policies and to maintain the security and integrity of its systems.

Security Reporting

All users must promptly report any suspected or actual security incidents, vulnerabilities, or breaches involving Edgecombe Community College’s IT resources. This includes, but is not limited to, unauthorized access, suspicious activity, data leaks, and malware infections.

Reports should be made immediately to the Incident Response Team via Technical Support Request, email at cybersecurity@edgecombe.edu, or by phone at 252-618-6640.

All other inquiries should be directed to the Chief Information Officer at (252) 618-6640.

Disciplinary Actions

Violations of this policy will be addressed through the College’s disciplinary processes and may include warnings, revocation of access privileges, suspension, expulsion, or legal action.

Acknowledgement of Policy

By accessing the College’s networks and computer systems, you agree to comply with this policy.