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SecureIT

Protect yourself from computer viruses, spyware, spam, and scams!

To protect your computer from viruses and other malware, it's important to follow safe computing practices.

Personal computers can be infected with viruses and spyware. Once infected, your computer’s security and your own identity and financial information can easily come under attack.

Awareness is your best defense against scams, phishes, and hoaxes. The information on this website provides an overview of Internet safety and scams, but we also encourage you to continue to learn more beyond what's provided here.

Strong Password Tips

Choosing strong passwords is important. It's also important you don't use your NetID and password for other non-MSU accounts, as that puts you at a greater risk.

When choosing a password or passphrase:

  1. Use eight or more characters that include at least one upper case letter, one lowercase letter, and one number.
  2. Use other characters like @ # $ ^ & * - _ ! + = [ ] { } | \ : ' , . ? / ` ~ ” ( ) ;
  3. Don't include your name (first, middle, or last) even as part of longer password (i.e., Sparty2015 wouldn't work as a password if your name was Art).
  4. Don't reuse a password you've used before.
  5. Don't share your passwords with anyone.

About MSU's SecureIT Campaign

Michigan State University encourages students, faculty and staff to protect their personal information, computers, and mobile devices by practicing safe computing habits through its SecureIT campaign.

Get the message out

SecureIT is part of various back-to-school student events and communications. 

SecureIT messages are also presented around campus through advertising, posters, direct mail, social media, and a variety of other venues and mediums throughout the year.