Web content filtering

To ensure the security of BU’s information and systems and compliance with our ICT Use of Information Technology Rules, web content filtering of defined categories will be introduced at BU in October. This will affect all of BU’s wired and wireless network, including the Student Village.

The updated filtering will allow BU to block access to certain categories of content that, in line with our approved Acceptable Use Policy (as per clause 6.22 of the ICT Use of Information Technology Rules), are regarded as a high security risk. Initially four categories will be blocked, these are:

• Malware Sites: malicious content including executables, drive-by infection sites, malicious scripts, viruses, trojans, and code
• Illegal: criminal activity, how not to get caught, copyright and intellectual property violations
• Violence: sites that advocate violence, depictions, and methods, including game/comic violence and suicide
• Hate and Racism: sites that contain content and language in support of hate crimes and racism.

We recognise there may be genuine requirements to access sites that could fall under these categories, and requests can be made to review an exception. This will need to be logged via Service Now (SNOW) under the Web Content Filtering service, stating what the exception is (URLs), how long access would be required for and the reason for access. The current security technology BU is using for filtering is limited and exceptions may not be able to be implemented until the system is replaced which is currently going through a formal procurement exercise.

You can download the Use of Information Technology Rules from our important information webpages and scrolling to the ICT section.

BU is committed to ensuring the security of all information, data and systems and this tool will assist with this protection.