Computer Security Resources

Computer Security Recommendations

This page is intended to provide you with some basic steps you can take to increase the security of your laptop.

No single product can provide total security; different tools stop different threats. If you implement the suggestions below to add multiple layers of security, your machine will be harder to compromise.

Updates

Updating your operating system and your applications such as Microsoft Office and Adobe Reader plugs security holes that hackers are constantly seeking. Check for Windows or macOS updates at least once a week to keep your computer up-to-date with security and other bug patches. Do a check as “close to immediately” as possible after connecting to the Internet. Both Windows Update and Apple’s Software update are turned on by default.

Are you receiving automatic updates?

macOS
Windows: Click the Start button and type Windows Update. Press Enter.

The university requires any personally owned devices that connect to university-owned and managed networks or university-owned systems, to maintain up-to-date device-appropriate security safeguards.

Vulnerability Management Policy

Please note that if you are offered new versions of your operating system, be careful not to upgrade to a version that has yet to be supported by the Law School.
Visit Laptop Support Policy

Backups are Critical

Part of good security is keeping backups of your important files; multiple backups on flash drives, cloud storage, etc. Backups are inexpensive. Data recovery, on the other hand, is very expensive, and sometimes not possible. Make backups often and check the backups to make sure that they are reliable.

Clinic Security

If you are part of a Law School clinic, please see our policy on handling clinic data responsibly.
Handling Clinic Data Policy

Security Recommendations

Antivirus

Law IT strongly recommends that you have antivirus software on your computer that is up-to-date.
For PCs, the University recommends Windows Defender. Defender is installed by default on supported versions of Windows.
How to Check your Antivirus Status

For Macs, the University recommends that you have some kind of antivirus software on your computer since macOS does not have a built-in antivirus application.
ITS Endpoint Protection Information

Firewall

Make sure your computer has a firewall enabled.

How to Check your Firewall Status

New Operating Systems

Please note that upgrading to new operating systems (for example Windows 11 to 12 or macOS 26 Tahoe to macOS 27 Golden Gate) could jeopardize your ability to take Electronic Bluebook exams. Please see our relevant pages for compatibility information first to make sure the operating system to which you wish to upgrade is fully supported.

Identity Theft

Protect Your Personal Data

Identity theft happens daily, and serious data breaches are frequently highlighted in the news.

Do not give out your Social Security number to people or companies you do not know. Know why that information is required in any given situation. Never carry your social Security card with you.
Shred information you no longer need that contains personally identifiable information.
Use strong passwords for your online accounts and use different passwords for each account.
Get a free copy of your credit report. Review the credit providers on the report to be sure credit has not been requested without your knowledge.
Never give personal information on the Internet or over the phone unless you are sure of who is asking for it.
Protect your computer with a firewall and regularly update antivirus software and your operating system.

UMICH Password

If you believe your UMICH password has been compromised, you should change it immediately and contact the ITS Service Center to let them know your account may have been affected.

Change UMICH Password
Contact ITS Service Center

Personal Data Loss

Should you experience a loss of personal data there are a number of actions you can take to minimize your loss.

First and foremost, remain calm. While this can be stressful, a calm demeanor will help you to navigate the steps successfully.
Remember to document your actions carefully. Keep copies of all the reports you file, and written notes of any phone conversations, including the names of the people with whom you speak.
If your Social Security number is compromised, you may want to contact the Social Security Administration and the Internal Revenue Service to guard against an identity thief who tries to file a change of address to get official documents sent to a new address (like your tax refund for example), or to try and obtain employment in your name. See the link below for contact information.
The following U.S. government site has thorough instructions, printable checklists, sample letters, a section on your rights in such a situation, and links to necessary reporting agencies. Take time to read this carefully and apply the recommended steps relevant to your situation.
Visit FTC Identity Theft Site
For people in the Ann Arbor area, contact the Ann Arbor police department.
Visit Ann Arbor Police Site
If you have any other questions or concerns, students, faculty, and staff can contact Law IT.
Contact Law IT

Tax Scams

The IRS has a number of guides which might be useful to help you keep your identity and tax returns safe. Taking a few minutes to look over the material may save considerable recovery effort later.

View Current Tax Scams

Report Phishing Attempts

View Taxpayer Identity Theft Guide

View Michigan Identity Theft Resources

Staff and Faculty: Mobile Devices

Staff and faculty are permitted to use their properly managed and secured, personally owned devices to access sensitive University data when necessary in the course of their work.

View Tech Policy