Information Technology

Acceptable Use Policy

UC ANR–owned electronic communications resources, such as computers purchased with ANR funds, are provided to advance our mission by supporting our programs, research, teaching, public service, and administrative functions.

Use of UC ANR devices is subject to university policy, including but not limited to the Electronic Communications Policy (ECP), Section III, Allowable Use, and BFB-IS-3, Electronic Information Security, Section 8.1.3, Acceptable use of assets. Devices provided by UC ANR are not intended for personal use.

According to ECP Section III.D.3, Restrictions, university electronic communications resources may not be used for:

  • unlawful activities
  • commercial purposes not under the auspices of the University
  • personal financial gain (except as permitted under applicable academic personnel policies)
  • personal use inconsistent with UC ANR's mission or administrative function
  • uses that violate University or campus policies or guidelines, including those regarding intellectual property and sexual or other forms of harassment

California Public Records Act

The University of California is a public state institution governed by the California Public Records Act (PRA) and Information Practices Act (IPA). This means records generated in the regular course of your work are open to inspection upon request by any member of the general public.

For personal privacy, among other reasons, it is important to keep personal business separate from your work device:

  • If you use your work device for personal purposes, such as personal conversations over WhatsApp or Discord, this material is likely to be subject to disclosure (ECP, Section V.B, Public Records, paragraph 3).
  • Additionally, if you conduct business for UC ANR on a personal device, then that material may also be considered public record and subject to disclosure (ECP, Appendix A, Definitions, "University Electronic Communications Record").

Exceptions

Exceptions to the Public Records Act are limited. The exceptions relevant to UC ANR staff include the following:

  • Privileged records (such as attorney-client records)
  • Records created for litigation purposes
  • Certain labor relations documents

In addition, confidential business records such as workplace performance evaluations must be redacted before release.

References