Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) Policy

Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to outline the acceptable use of personal devices by employees, students, and contractors at McNeese State University. This policy ensures the protection of the University’s data and technology infrastructure while enabling the use of personal devices for University-related activities.

Scope

This policy applies to all McNeese State University employees, students, and contractors who access University systems, data, or applications using personal devices.

Definitions

• BYOD: Bring Your Own Device; the practice of using personal devices to access University systems and data.
• Personal Devices: Smartphones, tablets, laptops, and other portable computing devices.

Policy

General Use

• Authorization: Only personal devices authorized by the Office of Information Technology may access McNeese State University systems and data.
• Compliance: Users must comply with all University policies, including the Acceptable Use of Information Technology Resources Policy and Information Technology Network Security Policy.
• Personal Property Use: Personal property used on campus is done so at the owner’s risk. Such property should be clearly marked as being non-University-owned property for audit purposes. Property housed at McNeese but not owned by the state is not insured.

Security Measures

• Password Protection: All personal devices must be password-protected in accordance with the University’s Password Policy.
• Encryption: Devices accessing sensitive University data must support and enable encryption.
• Anti-Malware: Devices must have up-to-date anti-malware software installed and actively running.
• Software Updates: Users must ensure their devices run the latest versions of operating systems and installed applications.

Access and Usage

• Data Access: University data must only be accessed through University-approved applications and services. Storing University data on personal devices is strictly prohibited.
• Network Access: Personal devices may only connect to the University network through secure, University-managed connections such as VPN.
• Monitoring: The University reserves the right to monitor and log all network traffic to and from personal devices accessing University systems.

Privacy

McNeese State University respects the privacy of personal device users. However, users should understand that data accessed through University systems may be subject to monitoring and audit for security purposes.

Loss or Theft

• Reporting: Users must immediately report the loss or theft of any personal device used to access University systems to the Office of Information Technology.
• Remote Wipe: The University reserves the right to remotely wipe lost or stolen devices to protect University data.

Enforcement

Violation of this policy may result in disciplinary actions, including but not limited to:

• Revocation of access privileges,
• Disciplinary review, and
• Legal action, if applicable.

Review and Revision

This policy will be reviewed annually by the Office of Information Technology and revised as necessary to reflect technological advancements or operational changes.

Contact Information

For questions or additional information, please contact the Office of Information Technology:

• Phone: (337) 475-5995
• Email: helpdesk@mcneese.edu

Communication

This policy is distributed via the University Policies webpage.