[corrections_edu_it] OSN URL Request Information

[John Michel]

Good afternoon, everyone,
I got some information today from Dominic that I wanted to share with you all regarding the URL requests. The information might be good to provide to faculty so that they know which sites won't be approved. Remember, when doing requests, you must provide a valid justification. Without one the request will be denied outright.

  1.  Essential for Class Completion:
The URL must be absolutely essential for the successful completion of a class or program. The class cannot be taught or completed without access to this specific URL.
  2.  Educational or Rehabilitative Purpose:
The URL must provide content directly related to educational programs, vocational training, self-improvement, rehabilitation, or legal research.
  3.  Security and Safety Compliance:
The website must not contain content that could jeopardize institutional security, public safety, or the personal safety of individuals. This includes but is not limited to:
     *   No access to personal communication platforms, social media, or unmonitored messaging systems.
     *   No content promoting violence, contraband, or criminal activities.
  4.  No Dynamic or Interactive Content:
URLs with dynamic content such as real-time chats, forums, comment sections, or user-generated content will not be considered unless explicitly reviewed and approved by the Department of Corrections’ Cyber Security Unit and Chief Information Security Officer.
  5.  Minimal Risk of Malware or Phishing:
The requested URL must not pose a cybersecurity threat, including risks of malware, phishing attempts, or suspicious downloads. Requests for URLs from unknown or unverified sources will be denied.
  6.  Reviewed and Approved by the local site’s Educational Administrator, the Department of Corrections’ Cyber Security Unit, and the Educational Director:
Requests must be reviewed and approved by the Educational Administrator, the Department of Corrections’ Cyber Security Unit, and the Educational Director responsible for overseeing digital resources used for education or rehabilitation.
  7.  Institutional Relevance:
The content of the URL must align with the institution’s goals and policies, providing value to incarcerated individuals in areas such as education, vocational skills, or mental wellness.
  8.  No Commercial or E-commerce Access:
URLs related to online shopping, financial transactions, or e-commerce platforms will be rejected unless deemed essential for approved vocational training programs.
  9.  No Proxy or VPN Access:
URLs that allow or encourage bypassing security restrictions, including proxy servers or VPN services, will not be approved.

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