Copyright Rules

Copyright protects original works such as music, movies, television programs, books, software, games and other creative content. Copyright owners have exclusive rights under federal law, including certain rights to reproduce and distribute their work.

Downloading, uploading, copying or distributing copyrighted material without permission or other legal authorization may constitute copyright infringement. This includes unauthorized peer-to-peer file sharing and sharing copyrighted material through digital services.

Examples of Copyright Infringement

Downloading or distributing movies, music, games or other copyrighted material from unauthorized sources.
Making and distributing unauthorized digital copies of copyrighted works.
Uploading or sharing copyrighted material through file-sharing networks, messaging services or other digital platforms.
Using peer-to-peer networks to obtain or distribute copyrighted material without authorization.

Not every use of copyrighted material constitutes infringement. Copyright law permits certain uses without permission, including uses that qualify as fair use.

Penalties for Copyright Infringement

University Sanctions

Unauthorized distribution of copyrighted material using University technology resources may result in disciplinary action under applicable University policies. Students who engage in illegal downloading or unauthorized distribution may be referred to the appropriate University office for review.

Civil and Criminal Penalties

Copyright infringement may carry civil or criminal penalties under federal law. A copyright owner may seek actual damages and profits or, when applicable, statutory damages. Statutory damages generally range from $750 to $30,000 per infringed work, and a court may increase an award to as much as $150,000 per work for willful infringement.

Certain cases of willful copyright infringement may also result in criminal penalties.

For additional information about copyright law and penalties, visit the U.S. Copyright Office or review its Copyright and Digital Files FAQ.

How Seton Hall Addresses Copyright Infringement

Seton Hall maintains measures designed to combat the unauthorized distribution of copyrighted material through University technology resources while supporting legitimate academic and research uses of the network.

These efforts include technology-based deterrents, information about the appropriate use of copyrighted material and procedures for responding to reports of unauthorized distribution.

Members of the University community are responsible for complying with federal copyright law and applicable University policies when using Seton Hall technology resources.

Legal Sources for Digital Content

Music, movies, television programs, games and other digital content should be obtained from sources authorized to distribute that material. Before downloading or sharing content, verify that the provider has the right to make it available.