Cell Phone Usage Policy

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Hostos Community College provides cellular telephones/blackberries, as approved by departmental supervisors, to full-time and part-time employees as a business tool. They are provided to assist employees in communicating effectively with other employees and outside clients/vendors as deemed necessary. All Customer Service calls should be directed to the IT Faculty/Staff Helpdesk ext 6646 during the hours of 9:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this policy is to provide guidelines regarding the use of and responsibilities required as Hostos Community College cell phone user.

• Cell phones/Blackberries that are purchased through the Information Technology Department are the property of Hostos Community College. The primary use of the device is for college-related business. Personal use of an assigned device should be occasional, for example, business related trips or emergencies. Phone bills will be monitored for any “excessive” usage. Each user has 600 peak minutes per month. Unlimited night and weekend minutes included. All excess minutes or charges will be billed to the individual and must be repaid to the college within 90 days to avoid suspension of service.

NOTE: Under no circumstances should the assigned cellular phone be used as a replacement for a personal cell phone or residential landline phone.

• Individuals to whom cellular phones have been provided are responsible for the security and maintenance of the phones and must promptly report any damage, theft, or vandalism to the Information Technology Department. We will be responsible for the replacement of damaged phone for the first incident excluding water damage and accessories. Cost resulting from subsequent incidents will be charged to the individual. Devices that are lost or stolen will have to be replaced by the individual/department and a report with Public Safety or the Police Department will have to be filed and presented to IT. These devices must be reported to the IT Department immediately so the data can be erased remotely and the device locked to prevent malicious use of the device or data.

• Safe use of the cell phone is of the utmost importance. Precautionary measures should be taken while driving. It is suggested that the speaker phone feature be utilized or a hands-free device be purchased.

Last Updated: 03/10/09

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