Copyright
ABOUT WINGATE'S COPYRIGHT LAW
Wingate complies with applicable United States copyright law as set forth in Title 17 of the United States Code, Section 106. In the peer-to-peer file-sharing context, unauthorized downloading or uploading substantial parts of a copyrighted work, such as music, videos, books, games, software or other files, constitutes an infringement. All network users are responsible for using electronic materials in accordance with copyright and licensing restrictions. The use of university resources that violates copyright laws, including downloading or sharing copyright-protected works, is strictly prohibited.
Copyright infringement, including unauthorized peer-to-peer file sharing, may subject you to civil and/or criminal liabilities, as well as personal sanctions imposed by Wingate University.
COPYRIGHT INFRINGEMENT
You can reproduce, distribute, perform, publicly display or make into a derivative work anything that’s copyright-protected only if you have permission from the copyright owner or have the legal authority to do so. If you have neither, that’s a huge problem. Copyright infringement can subject violators to civil and / or criminal liabilities and personal sanctions imposed by the university.
Infringement of Wingate University’s copyright policy includes peer-to-peer file sharing and unauthorized downloading or uploading of substantial parts of a copyrighted work. This copyrighted work includes music, videos, books, games, software and other files. Anyone found liable for civil copyright infringement can be ordered to pay either actual damages or statutory damages. The range is not less than $750 and not more than $30,000 per work infringed.
Willful infringement can result in the following penalties at the court’s discretion:
- Costs and attorneys’ fees
- Fines of up to $250,000 per offense
- Imprisonment of up to five years per offense
- Up to $150,000 per work infringed
In addition to penalties imposed by the court, Wingate University can:
- Add disciplinary sanctions for violating the Wingate Honor Code as defined in the student handbook
- Suspend Internet access
- Suspend user accounts
If you’d like more information, we invite you to review the copyright section in the 2022-2023 Wingate University Student Handbook or visit the United States Copyright Office website. Their FAQ page is especially helpful.