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Protect Yourself Online

Safe computing helps:

  • Protect individual privacy.
  • Prevent identity theft.
  • Protect computers and files from being corrupted or lost.

Be Aware of Phishing

Report and delete emails phishing for account numbers, NetIDs, and passwords to protect against identity theft.

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MSU or other reputable organizations will NEVER send emails requesting your NetID/account and password combination.

If you think you've compromised your MSU NetID, immediately change your password at netid.msu.edu. Call IT Services Support at (517) 432-6200 if you need additional assistance.

Learn more about phishing.

Use Strong Passwords

Create a strong password using eight or more characters and containing uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols.

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Make sure to password protect mobile devices, computer, routers and network connections. Don't share your passwords with anyone, including your parents or roommates.

Learn more about strong passwords.

Know about Copyright and Illegal File Sharing Risks

Don't share copyrighted files you don't own the copyright or license to do so (like music and movies) to protect against file sharing risks.

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Uninstall file sharing programs, which could lead to inadvertent file sharing and viruses.

Learn more about file sharing and copyright, as well as legal alternatives.

SecureIT

Be Safe!

1. Make sure your personal firewall is turned on.

MSU Computer Store - Help and Repair, in 120 Computer Center, can make sure your firewall is set up properly.

2. Perform regular operating system updates and software updates. These updates often include security patches.

MSU Computer Store - Help and Repair, in room 120 of the Computer Center, can also check your operating system and software updates.

3. Install antivirus and antispyware software.

Antivirus and antispyware software can be purchased at the MSU Computer Store in room 110 of the Computer Center at an educational discount.

4. Upgrade to the latest version of your browser and take advantage of the security features available.

  • Some browser security features include site pinning, safe browsing, and auto updates. These features can protect against phishing and malware attacks.
  • Learn more about security features in Internet Explorer, Firefox, and Chrome.