PSC resource abuse policy

The Pittsburgh Supercomputing Center's computing resources are vital to the scientific community, and we have a responsibility to ensure that these resources are utilized in a responsible manner. The term computing resources in this case refers to all computers owned or operated by PSC and all hardware, data, software, storage systems and communications networks associated with these computers. Improper use of PSC systems is generally referred to as resource abuse.

Users of PSC's systems are subject to applicable Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and federal laws. Abuse of resources will be referred to the PSC User Services manager and/or the appropriate local, state and federal authorities, at PSC's discretion. Furthermore, PSC may terminate or restrict any user's access to its systems, without prior notice, if such action is necessary to maintain computing availability and security for other users of the systems.

Resource abuse includes, but is not limited to:

• using, or attempting to use, the center's computing resources without prior authorization or for unauthorized purposes
• tampering with or obstructing the operation of the computing resources, or attempting to do so
• inspecting, modifying, distributing, or copying privileged data or software without proper authorization, or attempting to do so
• supplying, or attempting to supply, false or misleading information or identification in order to access PSC's computing resources.

If there is any doubt regarding the legitimacy or authorization of any action, contact PSC User Services.