CERN Accélérateur de science

Your user access should not be used to query data that is not directly linked to your professional duties. Doing so could constitute unethical behaviour.

(personal data)

The CERN Computing Rules, as set out in Operational Circular No. 5, demand respect for copyrighted material, including software.  CERN provides a large variety of licensed software intended for professional use by CERN contributors.  Generally, the licenses are limited to the use of the software at CERN or on CERN hardware.  Some software, however, including word processing packages, is available for installation on your home computers as well.  Please contact the person at CERN who is responsible for the software in question if you need further details.

(installing software)

We are aware of the need for accessible, global communication, especially given the global diversity of CERN contributors.  The use of Skype is tolerated at CERN provided it is configured in accordance with the procedures documented by IT at https://espace.cern.ch/it-faqs/Lists/faqs/DispForm.aspx?ID=72.  These procedures allow configuration of Skype in a way that minimizes the network bandwidth used.  As with all use of CERN computing facilities, the CERN Computing Rules, as set out in Operational Circular No. 5, are applicable.  Unless your productivity is compromised in the view of your hierarchy, your use of Skype for personal calls should not pose a problem.

This is tolerated under the CERN Computing Rules, as set out in Operational Circular No. 5, as long as it is occasional, does not encroach on work time and does not overburden the electronic network.  You should bear in mind that even private email correspondence can reflect upon CERN if it sent from your CERN account. You are therefore encouraged to set up a private email address for personal correspondence.

(personal use of CERN e-mail address)

The password is yours.  Consider it like your toothbrush:  never share it and change it regularly.  There is no legitimate reason for you ever to be asked to disclose your password -- not by the CERN Computer Security Team, the CERN Service Desk, or your colleague.  In fact, sharing your password is a direct violation of the CERN Computing Rules, as set out in Operational Circular No. 5.  Your colleague may not be aware of this, but you should bring it to his/her attention as you politely decline.

(protected data)

No. Any information which could be considered as confidential should be kept as such, even with respect to your employer.  If you are able to identify the person responsible for the information, it is expected that you contact him/her and return the confidential information.