DENVER – Colorado State University (CSU) and Colorado University (CU) announced they oppose the FCC’s tightened online security requirements.
Although the revised rules have yet to be clarified, officials of most universities believe the costs could be prohibitive, especially if schools are required to upgrade their Internet switches and routers. Technology experts estimate it would cost colleges and universities $7 billion just to buy the equipment. That figure does not include installation, staffing or service.
Some opponents of the new FCC rules are also concerned about privacy rights. Officials from CU and CSU, however, say they are not concerned about civil liberties because they already turn over Internet and phone records when subpoenaed. Because these requests are made infrequently (about once a year), CU and CSU do not believe the expensive upgrades mandated by the FCC are necessary.
Both universities have filed letters supporting the American Council on Education, which is appealing the FCC’s decision.
