According to U.S. copyright law, unauthorized reproduction of software is a federal offense. Offenders can be subject to civil damages of as much as $100,000 per title copied, and criminal penalties, including fines (up to $250,000 per work copied) and imprisonment (up to five years per title copied). UWA specifically forbids the unauthorized duplication of copyrighted software. UWA purchases licenses for the use of copies of computer software from a variety of outside companies. However, the University does not own the copyright to this software or its related documentation, and except for a single copy for backup purposes or unless expressly authorized by the copyright owner(s), it does not have the right to reproduce it for use on more than one computer unless the license is for multiple use.

The University shall use the software on local area network only in accordance with the license agreement. Any University employee or student who knowingly reproduces, acquires, or uses unauthorized copies of computer software licensed to UWA or who places or uses unauthorized software on University premises or equipment shall be in violation of University policy. University employees and students should report any misuse of software or related documentation within the University to the Director of Information Systems.