The Michigan Cyber Security Initiative Helps Michigan Stay Secure Online

By Cindy Denby

So much of our everyday lives involve using the Internet, making it important to make sure your computer and online accounts are protected and secure. The Michigan Cyber Security Initiative, run by the Attorney General's Office, has created several tools to help Michigan residents and businesses stay secure on the Internet. To stay secure online, the Michigan CSI recommends keeping all programs, including anti-virus software, up to date. Installing firewalls and spyware protection and only opening emails from people you know also will help with online security. Protecting your passwords and backing up important files is also important. 

Michigan CSI offers a significant amount of resources that are available for free online that will help explain the dangers on the Internet. The website also gives more detailed information on how Michigan residents can protect themselves. Information available includes how to protect your personal computer from online identify theft, malware threats such as worms, trojans and viruses, email fraud and more. There is also helpful information on home business and auction fraud scams, broadband security, identify theft and credit card theft and how to protect children on the internet. 

I'm pleased that we have such valuable resources available for Michigan residents so that we can continue to use the Internet safely every day. I encourage everyone to talk with their children, friends and family about online security and make sure you aren't making it easy for hackers to take advantage of you. 

If you have any questions or need assistance with any state issues, please contact me toll free at 866-828-4863 or via e-mail.