AI Guidelines

Uses of AI that Violate Standing Policies at George Mason University 

As AI technologies evolve in their capabilities, the following list of uses of AI that violate standing policies at George Mason University cannot be exhaustive. For all university-related AI activities, utilize university-approved platforms and resources. When in doubt, contact your unit lead before integrating and/or using an AI tool in your activities. 

• Data Privacy and Confidentiality Violations: Do not enter confidential information, including proprietary data, student data, personal information, or any other data that is considered private or sensitive into publicly available AI tools. Do not access, share, or manipulate personal or institutional data without proper authorization. Be aware of the risks of using free services. Free online services typically monetize your data, identity, and how the service is being used. Several university policies, including University Policy Number 1114, lay out responsibilities of units and individuals of George Mason University regarding data stewardship.     
   
• Security Violations: Do not use AI for any activity that could compromise university systems or networks, including hacking, breaching security measures, or exploiting vulnerabilities. These activities have serious legal and disciplinary repercussions per University Policy Number 1301 on the responsible use of computing.     
   
• Malicious Content: Do not use AI to create or distribute malicious content, including malware, viruses, phishing emails, or any other content designed to harm individuals, systems, or networks. Such uses are prohibited under University Policy Number 1301 on the responsible use of computing.    
   
• Intellectual Property Infringement: Do not use AI to create or distribute content that violates copyright or intellectual property laws per University Policy Number 1104 on copyrighted materials. Be aware that the use of AI-generated images in official university materials and any AI-generated materials produced using university resources currently bear high intellectual property risks and could expose the university to liability.    
   
• Deception and Misinformation: Do not use AI to deceive others. This includes creating false communication, such as fake news articles, fabricated messages, or misleading information, with the intent to deceive or manipulate others. Do not use AI to alter or fabricate data to support false claims or mislead. This includes using AI for spamming or phishing activities. Such uses are prohibited under University Policy Number 1301 on the responsible use of computing, as well as the Commonwealth of Virginia’s DHRM Policy 1.75: Use of Electronic Communications and Social Media.     
   
• Unauthorized Surveillance: Do not use AI for any form of unauthorized surveillance of individuals on university grounds or within university systems. This includes using AI for surveillance of students, faculty, or staff, tracking individual movements or activities, and monitoring private conversations or communications. Such uses are prohibited by University Policy Number 1301 on the responsible use of computing.     
   
• Harassment and Abuse: Do not use AI to harass, bully, or intimidate. This includes using AI to generate offensive content, such as hate speech, threats, or discriminatory remarks, directed towards individuals or groups. Do not use AI to create or distribute content that promotes or incites violence, harassment, or discrimination. Remember, words, even when AI-generated, have power. Failure to do so risks violating several University Policies, such as Policy Number 1202, and the Commonwealth of Virginia’s DHRM Policy 1.60: Standards of Conduct.    
   
• Discrimination: Do not use AI in a manner that discriminates against individuals based on race, gender, disability, or any other protected characteristic. Failure to do so risks violation of the George Mason University Non-Discrimination Policy (Policy Number 1201).     
   
• Academic Integrity Violations: Do not use AI in any way that compromises academic integrity and violates university policies or guidelines. George Mason University’s Academic Standards Policy prohibits students from cheating, plagiarism, stealing, and lying in academic work.     
   
• Unethical Research Practices: Do not employ AI in research without adhering to ethical guidelines and obtaining necessary approvals. Failure to do so risks violating the George Mason University Misconduct in Research and Scholarship Policy. 
   

These guidelines shall be reviewed as needed. A complete list of George Mason University Policies can be found at universitypolicy.gmu.edu/policies.