December 9, 1994
Appendix J- Computer Security Rules, Regulations, and Laws
There are University regulations and a number of state and federal laws that affect the security of information processing resources, computer systems, computer software, and data files. The following summaries are provided for the reader to review:
- Texas A&M University Regulations, Section 44 and 45
- Regulations concerning computer security and use of Texas A&M University computing resources.
- Texas A&M University Policy and Procedures Manual, Section 8.1.15
- Regulations concerning computer security.
- Texas Administrative Code, 1 TAC 201.13(b)
- Policy, standards, and guidelines for Information Resources Security and Risk Management by the Texas Department of Information Resources.
- Texas Penal Code, Chapter 33: Computer Crimes
- State of Texas Law concerning computer crimes.
- Federal Copyright Law
- Recognizes that all intellectual works are automatically covered by copyright. The owner of a copyright holds the exclusive right to reproduce and distribute the work.
- Computer Fraud and Abuse Act of 1986
- Makes it a crime to access a computer to obtain restricted information without authorization; to alter, damage, or destroy information on a government computer; and to traffic in passwords or similar information used to gain unauthorized access to a government computer.
- Electronic Communications Privacy Act of 1986
- Prohibits the interception or disclosure or electronic communication and defines those situations in which disclosure is legal.
- Computer Software Rental Amendments Act of 1990
- Deals with the unauthorized rental, lease, or lending of copyrighted software. This act does not apply to non-profit educational institutions.