Keeping your devices secure is one of the best ways to protect yourself and U-M from a host of cybersecurity and privacy threats.
U-M devices should be used for university work whenever possible. If you need to use a personal device for university business, ensure it is secure, minimize the amount of institutional data on that device, and delete the data as soon as it is no longer needed. Refer to the Sensitive Data Guide entry for Personally Owned Devices to determine which U-M data is permitted on personal devices.
Tips for Securing Personal Devices
 | Keep devices in a physically safe location, especially mobile devices and laptops. |
 | Use a secure password and set devices to lock when not in use. |
 | Keep your operating system, applications, and firmware up to date to address security risks. Turn on automatic updates where available and/or use the app store for your device to check for updates. |
 | Use Endpoint Protection on personal devices; U-M devices have this protection in place. |
 | Encrypt Your Data and Devices to protect them against unauthorized access. |
 | Back up your data in case your device is lost, stolen, compromised, or fails and must be replaced. Remember that U-M data must be backed up to a U-M device or service. |
 | Register your devices through the free laptop and personal electronics registration program offered by the Division of Public Safety and Security. |
 | Safely dispose of or erase a device when it is no longer needed or is being given to a new owner. |
Additional Security for Mobile Devices
Here are some important security and privacy considerations for mobile devices:
- Turn on the find my phone/device feature for your mobile device.
- Turn off/restrict Bluetooth, AirDrop, and other connections when you aren't using them. Restrict AirDrop shares to only those in your contacts.
- Only install software from reputable vendors, such as the app store for your device/OS. Do not install software unexpectedly offered by websites, particularly special video and audio players.
Internet of Things Devices
IoT devices include gaming systems, smart speakers, smart TVs, watches and wearables, streaming devices, smart thermostats and appliances, home security systems, and more. They can collect a large amount of data about you, making them a privacy concern. See Secure Your Internet of Things Devices for some tips on securing these sorts of personal devices.
Use a Secure Internet Connection
The pages below give you specific guidance on how to get online securely:
Working Remotely and Traveling with Technology
These resources can help keep you and U-M secure if you work remotely or travel with tech: