Many newspapers worry about improper use of their computers.  

Abuse of computer access to information is becoming common in all 
industries, and newspapers are no exception.  If you have a policy manual, 
you might want a policy statement on use of computers.  This is not a legal 
requirement, but merely a suggested policy statement provided by the  
OPA Legal Services Plan Committee for your use.


ACKNOWLEDGEMENT AND AGREEMENT TO USE OF COMPUTERS

The undersigned hereby acknowledges receipt of and agreement to the following policy concerning use of 
computers at [the name of the newspaper] ("Company").  When using a Company computer or a personal 
computer connected to the Company network or utilizing the Company Internet Service Provider, I agree:
1.	To abide by all Company policies including the following:
a.	Not to copy or otherwise duplicate software installed on Company computers except as 
authorized by the Company license;
b.	Not to install unauthorized software on Company computers;
c.	Not to use Company computers for non-Company business;
d.	Not to use the Company's network or Internet Service for any illegal or improper purpose 
including, but not limited to, accessing pornography;
e.	Not to distribute to third parties materials stored on Company computers without 
Company authorization; and
f.	That all information, data, or files related to or used in connection with my employment 
with the Company created, received, downloaded, stored, transmitted, deleted or used on 
a computer located on the Company's premises is the Company's property and must 
remain confidential.
2.	Inspection.  The Company may physically inspect any computer on the Company premises 
including those not owned by the Company when the other-owned computer is or has been connected to 
the Company network, Internet Service, or other Company resource. The inspection is to insure that all 
information or records contained in such computers is being used in accordance with Company policies.  I 
agree to cooperate fully and provide any passwords necessary to allow such inspection.  If necessary, the 
Company may take temporary physical possession to conduct such inspection.
3.	Notice.  The Company may provide advanced notice, but the Company reserves the right to 
revoke the use of any computer located on the Company premises at any time, with or without notice, and 
inspect the computer as described above.
4.	Termination.  Upon my termination or resignation, the Company may physically inspect in my 
presence, and, if necessary, take temporary possession of the computer and may remove, erase, or delete 
business-related information or data that the computer may contain.
I hereby acknowledge that I have read this agreement and agreed to be bound by its terms.  I understand 
that non-compliance with these policies may subject me to disciplinary action including termination.

													
Employee Signature					Date
 
 
 
 

Provided by the OPA LSP Committee								October 25, 2007