APPENDIX E – MUNICIPAL POLICIESAPPENDIX E – MUNICIPAL POLICIES\40. Internet & Software Policy

PURPOSE

General Use - The City provides Internet and software access to its employees for the express purpose of enhancing the delivery of services to its citizens. Employees having access to the Internet will be expected to use this technology discreetly and properly.

POLICY

(A)  Downloading or Uploading Information. All items uploaded to the City’s Web site are to be scanned for viruses. All items downloaded from the City’s Web site or any other location are to be scanned for viruses. Material downloaded from the Internet is to be placed on diskettes first. It is never to be placed on a hard drive.

       At least two anti-virus software programs are to be used to scan for viruses before any material from a diskette is placed on the City’s network system or given to another department via diskette.

(B)  Anonymous Messages and Aliases. Anonymous messages are not to be sent. Aliases are not to be used. Employees are expected to comply with the City’s policy regarding confidentiality, solicitation, moonlighting, organizational ethics, and harassment when using the Internet.

(C)  Monitoring and Use of Equipment. The City does monitor the use of the Internet. It also monitors the use of phone lines, including local calls to determine whether employees are violating any applicable City policies. The City also monitors use of its network and computer systems.

       Any data on City-owned computers, systems, or its premises may be viewed at any time. Employees have no ownership or privacy expectations in such data. All work created using City equipment or system belongs to the City.

       Employees are not to place personal copies of software or data on any City computers. This especially includes any games or pornographic material.

       No software is to be entered in any City owned computer without prior approval of the City Council.

(D)  Penalties. Violation of this City policy may lead to discipline including discharge.