LANSING, Mich. — Threats to digital devices are nothing new, but with the launch of the upgraded Michigan Secure mobile app, the State of Michigan is providing a free, easy way for Michiganders to protect themselves and their loved ones from cybercrime. The Michigan Secure app empowers users by informing them of the threats they encounter as they interact with an increasingly technology-driven world.
“Many people only think about mobile device safety in terms of physical safety, like cell phone use while driving,” said Jayson Cavendish, chief security officer for the State of Michigan. “They think their device includes all the security features they need, which makes them vulnerable to phishing attempts, unsafe Wi-Fi, and other threats, giving malicious individuals access to information or allowing them to gain control of their device. Michigan Secure can help keep Michiganders’ information safe and alert them to digital risks.”
Mobile security is extremely important as the number of threats continues to rise. Data released in the FBI’s Internet Crime Report reinforces the need for increased vigilance, as mobile devices are not exempt from threats.
- Over the last five years, the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center has received an average of 652,000 complaints per year, addressing a wide array of internet scams affecting victims across the globe and totaling $27.6 billion in total losses.
- In 2022, over 300,000 individuals reported falling victim to phishing scams.
- Michigan ranks eighth among the states, with 13,566 victims, and seventh in total victim losses by state, with $177.9 million in 2022.
Cybercriminals can infiltrate every corner of the digital ecosystem, including free Wi-Fi networks. They pose as a trustworthy connection, making it difficult for an individual to differentiate between the legitimate source and the fake connection. If an unsuspecting user connects to the infiltrated network, any information they input while on the device, including personal and financial data, is placed directly into the hands of a cybercriminal. With Michigan Secure, users will receive an alert if they are connected to a network containing suspicious activity, giving opportunity to disconnect before information is stolen.
The latest version of Michigan Secure puts more power into the hands of the user with a sleek, modern interface. The app continuously detects and blocks risky links on mobile devices across apps if the user choses to opt-in, warning users about accessing potentially harmful digital environments. Michigan Secure also extends antiphishing capabilities to the Messages app and the Safari browser on iOS mobile devices, protecting users from malicious and risky links, pictures, or videos in text messages and online.
In addition, the upgraded version of Michigan Secure provides users with a summary of permission requests and privacy information for new downloads, describing the information that can and cannot be accessed from the user’s device. The feature allows users to explore privacy and security risks associated with an app in easy-to-understand language.
Michigan Secure is available for mobile devices running iOS 11 or higher, Android 6.0 or higher, and Chromebooks with Android apps support. Michiganders can download Michigan Secure from the App Store or Google Play. For more information, visit Michigan.gov/MichiganSecureApp.
To learn more about Michigan’s cybersecurity efforts, including tips and tricks, visit the Michigan Cybersecurity website at Michigan.gov/Cybersecurity.
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