MEMORANDUM FOR DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE EMPLOYEES

FROM:         Stephen R. Colgate
                     Assistant Attorney General
                     for Administration

SUBJECT:    Update on Personal Use of the Internet

The Department's Internet e-mail traffic has shown an increasing volume of traffic that does not appear to be related to the mission of the Department and which can slow the delivery of messages that are mission related. Employees are reminded that personal use of the Internet is allowed only to the extent that it does not interfere with official business. You should refrain from sending personal files that could slow the delivery of the Department's official Internet e-mail.

This type of traffic, which includes attachments such as automated greeting cards, image files, video clips, video games, and other executables, is particularly noticeable around the holidays. The problem can become particularly acute when large files are sent to more than one person at the same time. Even smaller files can slow official traffic when broadcast simultaneously to multiple destinations.

In addition, I would like to remind all employees of the danger of malicious software, which can be transmitted under the guise of a holiday greeting. Loading and executing any foreign software on your workstation, whether received in electronic mail, downloaded from the Internet, or given to you on a diskette, can result in damage to personal computers or in the compromise of sensitive Departmental information.

Finally, as I discussed in my previous memorandum on "Personal Use of the Internet" (attached), please make sure any personal files you send through the Department's Internet connection are appropriate to the Department of Justice workplace.

If you need further information on personal use of the Internet, please get in touch with your supervisor.

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