Fayette Internet Usage ordinance (§ 125.580)

A. Internet access to global electronic information resources on the World Wide Web is provided by the City of Fayette to assist employees in obtaining work-related data and technology. All Internet data that is composed, transmitted, or received via our computer communications systems is considered to be part of the official records of the City of Fayette and, as such, is subject to disclosure to law enforcement or other third parties. Consequently, employees should always ensure that the business information contained in Internet e-mail messages and other transmissions is accurate, appropriate, ethical, and lawful.

B. The equipment, services, and technology provided to access the Internet remain at all times the property of the City of Fayette. As such, the City of Fayette reserves the right to monitor Internet traffic, and retrieve and read any data composed, sent, or received through our online connections and stored in our computer systems.

C. Data that is composed, transmitted, accessed, or received via the Internet must not contain content that could be considered discriminatory, offensive, obscene, threatening, harassing, intimidating, or disruptive to any employee or other person. Examples of unacceptable content may include, but are not limited to, sexual comments or images, racial slurs, gender-specific comments, or any other comments or images that could reasonably offend someone on the basis of race, age, gender, religious or political beliefs, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by law.

D. Internet users should take the necessary anti-virus precautions before downloading or copying any file from the Internet. All downloaded files are to be checked for viruses; all compressed files are to be checked before and after decompression. Abuse of the Internet access provided by the City of Fayette in violation of law or City of Fayette policies will result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment. Employees may also be held personally liable for any violations of this policy. The following behaviors are examples of previously stated or additional actions and activities that are prohibited and can result in disciplinary action:

1. Sending or posting discriminatory, harassing, or threatening messages or images.

2. Using the City's time and resources for personal gain.

3. Stealing, using, or disclosing someone else's code or password without authorization.

4. Copying, pirating, or downloading software and electronic files without permission.

5. Violating copyright law.

6. Failing to observe licensing agreements.

7. Engaging in unauthorized transactions that may incur a cost to the City or initiate unwanted Internet services and transmissions.

8. Sending or posting messages or material that could damage the City's image or reputation.

9. Participating in the viewing or exchange of pornography or obscene materials.

10. Sending or posting messages that defame or slander other individuals.

11. Attempting to break into the computer system of another organization or person.

12. Sending or posting chain letters, solicitations, or advertisements not related to business purposes or activities.

13. Using the Internet for political causes or activities, religious activities, or any sort of gambling.

14. Jeopardizing the security of the City's electronic communications systems.

15. Sending or posting messages that disparage another organization's products or services.

16. Passing off personal views as representing those of the City.

17. Sending anonymous e-mail messages.

18. Engaging in any other illegal activities.