Email Usage and Retention Policy

Effective Date: April 1, 2008

Policy Statement

Email is an expedient communication vehicle to send messages to the Columbia University population. Because of the versatility and ubiquity of email technology, Columbia University recognizes and has established the use of email as an official means of communication.  University email includes Cubmail, Outlook, and other specific services offered by the Business School, Law School and Columbia University Medical Center.  This policy defines the appropriate use of Columbia University's email and its retention.

Primary Guidance to Which This Policy Responds

This policy responds to the "Acceptable Use of IT Resources" and the "Desktop and Laptop Security" policies.

Responsible University Office & Officer

The office of Columbia University Information Technology Security is responsible for the maintenance of this policy, and for responding to questions regarding this policy. The Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) is the responsible officer.

Revision History

This policy was established in April 2008.

Who is Governed by This Policy

This policy applies to all individuals who are granted a Columbia University email account. Those individuals covered include, but are not limited to, faculty, staff, students, those working on behalf of the University, and/or individuals authorized by affiliated institutions and organizations. 

Who Should Know This Policy

Anyone with a Columbia University email account should know this policy.

Exclusions and Special Situations

None

See full policy text at right