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.