Q. What is UO-BAYU?

A. UO-BAYU (Be Aware You're Uploading) is a service that notifies users of peer-to-peer (P2P) file sharing software (such as BitTorrent, LimeWire, eDonkey, and Ares) about the dangers of copyright infringement. UO-BAYU is an automated system that recognizes when computers on the campus network (UOnet) are engaged in P2P file sharing and contacts the user via e-mail with a warning about the dangers of copyright infringement.

Q. What is the goal of this project?

A. This project seeks to warn P2P users on UOnet, who may or may not be engaged in copyright infringement, about the risks before they become embroiled in a potentially costly lawsuit.

Q. Why is the University doing this?

A. The University of Oregon is launching UO-BAYU because the most common use of P2P technology is to illegally distribute copyrighted works. This activity has resulted in over 700 complaints from copyright holders in the 2007-2008 school year alone, with a number of these complaints resulting in lawsuits. We hope that UO-BAYU notifications will help users understand the risks before they are subject to a lawsuit themselves.

Q. How does UO-BAYU work?

A. UO-BAYU uses network traffic-analysis software to determine which computers on the campus network are engaged in P2P file sharing. UO-BAYU does not block this traffic, inspect what files are transferred, slow down file transfers, or inspect what files are located on a user's computer. UO-BAYU is only used to discover who is using P2P software and notify them about the potential risks if they are downloading and distributing copyrighted materials.

Q. Is UO-BAYU a software program that I will be required to install?

A. UO-BAYU is not a software program that you must install. UO-BAYU is a service that runs on a centrally managed system that can detect P2P network traffic on UOnet.

Q. Will UO-BAYU slow down my computer at all?

A. No, UO-BAYU will not slow down your computer or network connection.

Q. How long will the University keep information it collects about me from UO-BAYU?

A. The University will retain information collected from UO-BAYU for operational use for one month, after which the data is purged. The University will retain anonymous aggregate usage data indefinitely for trend analysis and research purposes.

Q. Will my e-mail box be flooded with UO-BAYU notices if I'm away for a few days?

A. No. UO-BAYU will send only one message to you each week if you are using P2P software on UOnet.

Q. If I am using P2P software to upload lawfully, am I going to get an e-mail message from UO-BAYU?

A. Yes. UO-BAYU cannot determine if you are using P2P software for legal or illegal distribution. You will receive a e-mail message every week you are engaged in P2P file sharing regardless of its legality.

Q. Will UO-BAYU block people from sharing files?

A. No. UO-BAYU will not block P2P file sharing; it will only notify the user of the risks of using P2P software to share copyrighted material without the explicit permission of the copyright holder.

Q. Where can I get help with removing P2P software from my computer?

A. The Information Services Helpdesk and Housing Residence Hall Helpdesk (RESNET) can provide help with removing P2P software, in addition to other computer related services. RESNET only provides technical support to students living in the UO Residence Halls. The Information Services Helpdesk provides support to all UO affiliated students, staff, and faculty.