Summary – Acceptable Use Policy
Purpose & Scope
Establishes rules for using Bloomfield Township’s computers, mobile devices, network accounts, and electronic resources.
Applies to employees, contractors, consultants, temps, and third parties using Township-owned or leased equipment.
Goal: protect the Township, its employees, and residents from cyber risks, misuse, and legal exposure.
General Use & Ownership
All proprietary information stored on devices (Township-owned or otherwise) is Township property.
Employees must:
Report loss, theft, or unauthorized disclosure.
Use data only for job-related duties.
Use personal judgment on limited personal use.
Township IT may monitor and audit systems at any time.
Security Requirements
Devices connecting to Township networks must comply with the Minimum Access Policy.
Passwords must follow the Password Policy; sharing credentials is prohibited.
Devices must auto-lock within 30 minutes or less.
Employees must lock or log off unattended devices.
Township emails posted externally should carry a disclaimer unless done as part of official duties.
Use extreme caution with email attachments from unknown senders.
Unacceptable Use
System & Network
Installing or distributing unlicensed/pirated software.
Unauthorized access to servers, accounts, or data.
Exporting restricted software without authorization.
Introducing malicious software (viruses, ransomware, etc.).
Circumventing security measures or conducting port/network scanning without IT approval.
Denial-of-service attacks, network sniffing, spoofing, or honeypot deployment.
Sharing Township employee information externally.
Email & Communication
Sending spam, chain letters, or fraudulent offers.
Harassment via email, text, or phone.
Forging email headers or misusing addresses.
Posting unsolicited bulk messages online.
Social Media & Posting
Township systems may be used for limited, responsible personal posting if it does not interfere with work.
Employees must not:
Harm the Township’s reputation.
Make discriminatory, defamatory, or harassing posts.
Attribute personal opinions to the Township.
Use Township logos, trademarks, or intellectual property without authorization.
Compliance & Enforcement
IT verifies compliance via audits, monitoring, and reporting.
Exceptions require prior IT approval.
Violations may result in disciplinary action up to termination.