Academic Year 2026-2027
George Mason Annual Copyright Disclosure Notice
In Compliance with the Higher Education Opportunity Act (HEOA)
Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA) Notification
Purpose
This annual disclosure is issued in accordance with the Higher Education Opportunity Act (HEOA) of 2008, which requires institutions of higher education to inform students about:
- Copyright Law Overview
- George Mason Policies
- DMCA Enforcement at George Mason Legal alternatives to illegal downloading
- Educational Resources
- Contact Information
Copyright Law Overview
Under the Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA) and Title 17 of the U.S. Code, it is illegal to:
- Download, share, or distribute copyrighted materials (e.g., music, movies, software, books) without proper authorization.
- Use peer-to-peer (P2P) networks for unauthorized file sharing.
Violations may result in civil and criminal penalties, including fines up to $150,000 per infringement.
George Mason Policies
George Mason prohibits the use of its network and computing resources for unauthorized distribution of copyrighted materials. Relevant policies include:
- University Policy 1301: Responsible Use of Computing Policy
- University Policy 1104: Copyrighted Materials
- University Policy 4002: Copyright in University Works
Violations may result in:
- Loss of network access
- Disciplinary action under the Student Code of Conduct or the appropriate administrative department
- Referral to law enforcement
DMCA Enforcement at Mason
When a DMCA notice is received:
- The university identifies the user.
- The user is notified and may be required to remove the infringing content.
- Repeat offenses may result in disciplinary action or legal referral.
Legal Alternatives to Illegal Downloading
Students are encouraged to use legal sources for media and software, such as:
- Spotify (student plans)
- Apple Music
- Amazon Prime Student
- Open Access Journals
- Library databases and streaming services
- Additional listings
Educational Resources
Students can learn more about copyright and fair use through:
Contact Information
For questions or to report suspected copyright violations:
Information Technology Services
Phone: (703) 993-8870 or Live Chat