Legal Question in Technology Law in New Hampshire

Public Internet Access

I am the IT manager for a small non profit group. We currently have several computer terminals with open Internet access. These terminals are often used by students under the age of 18 and often without direct supervision as the building is open 27/7 for the most part. Looking at the access logs leads me to believe that we should not be doing this or at the very least filtering for adult content. This has however been met with great resistance from other department management. What is the extent of our responsibility as to content filtering and what if any liability do we face if we continue to offer open access?


Asked on 3/03/06, 6:19 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Lawrence Graves Coolidge & Graves PLLC

Re: Public Internet Access

Unfortunately, now that you know what is going on you need to take steps to fix it. Your company should have an "acceptable computer use" policy (if it doesn't, this should be done too) that prohibits access or downloading of sexually-explicit material. The company can find itself liable for sexual harassment by failing to prevent the presence of such material on its computers.

Installing blocking software would be prudent, but the company should also directly address the issue by a directive to all employees forbidding the above-described activity.

Best wishes,

LDWG

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Answered on 3/03/06, 8:38 am


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