* Why are websites being blocked? EMU's Division of Information Technology is utilizing a new service, ThreatStop, to protect users from the ever-increasing issues of malware, phishing and virus attacks.

* How does this service work? ThreatStop gathers information from multiple sources and maintains a list of blocked websites based on current threats or problems.

* What determines whether a website is blocked? Websites that have a reputation for malicious content, or are actively delivering malicious content, are automatically added to ThreatStop's list.

* What determines when a website is unblocked? ThreatStop's list is updated in real time, unblocking websites that are no longer reported as having malicious content.

* Why can I use a website at some times and not at others? Websites are continuously added and removed from ThreatStop's list as reports of malicious content change.

* How can I access a blocked website when I have a legitimate business need? If you need to access a website for legitimate business use, contact the I.T. Help Desk at 734.487.2120 with the website information. Documentation of your business need may also be required.

* Why are popular websites blocked? Even popular websites can encounter problems. Because they are popular, issues are usually corrected quickly, removing the website from ThreatStop's list.

* Why can I access my personal website at home but not at work? Some website services allow users to easily create their own web page. Unfortunately, this allows malicious users to quickly set up fake websites as well. The abuse on some provider websites is so widespread that their entire website (including your personal site) can be blocked.

* Isn't this a little extreme? My.emich accounts are routinely compromised as users willingly, or when tricked, provide their login credentials to others. It is not uncommon for multiple people to fall victim to a phishing attack on any given day. This makes the prevention of malware, phishing and virus attacks a top priority.

* This seems sudden. Why are we so worried about it? A phishing attack that results in even one compromised account can affect email delivery to the entire campus. Within seconds, a compromised account can send out thousands of spam messages, causing other email providers to reject ALL messages originating from an emich.edu email address.

* Is this the only method we are using to protect our users? The ThreatStop service is just one of many tools used by I.T. to protect EMU users and data. I.T recognizes the delicate balance between security and user convenience and does not take the decision to block websites lightly. Every attempt is being made to limit the number of blocked websites to current threats and the worst offenders.