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
Academic Year: 2025–2026
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