Michigan launches free app to protect mobile devices from threats

The state of Michigan is now providing residents access to a free mobile application that can detect threats to their mobile devices. The Michigan Secure app alerts an individual of suspicious activity on their mobile device, allowing them to interact with the digital world with greater confidence.

“Our reliance on mobile devices has been met with a surge in activity by cybercriminals looking to access those devices to steal our personal information, and possibly much worse,” said DTMB Director and State Chief Information Officer Brom Stibitz. “The Michigan Secure app is a huge step towards protecting Michiganders from these criminals and giving us all some peace of mind as we use our phones and tablets.”

Michigan Secure empowers users by informing them of the threats they encounter as they interact with an increasingly technology-driven world. The application warns users if the Wi-Fi they are trying to connect to could be compromised. It can also scan other Android mobile apps for potential threats and alert users before they are downloaded. Michigan Secure even has a database of potential threat indicators to notify individuals of activity on their phone that matches a documented threat.

“While the security of our mobile devices is critical, it is also important to respect people’s privacy,” explained Stibitz. “Michigan Secure does not require anyone to share their personal information or mobile data. It exists for the sole purpose of detecting threats and notifying the user.”

The Michigan Secure app does not collect, store, or monitor the personal information of users that download it. The app’s code and privacy configuration settings have received the approval of the American Civil Liberties Union for the way they protect individual privacy.

Michigan Secure is available for mobile devices running iOS 11 or higher, Android 6.0 or higher, and Chromebooks with Android Apps Support. You can download Michigan Secure on the App Store or Google Play. For more information, visit Michigan.gov/MichiganSecureApp.

For Michiganders interested in learning more about how to protect themselves and their loved ones online, visit the Michigan Cybersecurity website at Michigan.gov/Cybersecurity for information ranging from how to practice proper cyber “hygiene” to learning about what to do if you are a victim of a cybercrime.