Michigan Cybersecurity Laws You Should Know (2025)
Michigan businesses face increasing pressure to strengthen cybersecurity as data breaches, ransomware, and other cyber threats become more frequent. Understanding Michigan cybersecurity laws is critical to maintaining compliance, protecting sensitive data, and avoiding costly penalties. Below, we’ll break down the key cybersecurity and privacy laws that apply to Michigan organizations and how to stay ahead of evolving regulations.
Michigan Cybersecurity Laws
Michigan Identity Theft Protection Act (Mich. Comp. Laws § 445.61 et seq.)
The Michigan Identity Theft Protection Act (MITPA) is the state’s primary cybersecurity law. It requires businesses and public entities to notify affected individuals without unreasonable delay if personal information has been compromised in a data breach. If more than 1,000 residents are affected, businesses must also notify nationwide consumer reporting agencies.
Michigan Data Breach Notification Requirements
Under MITPA, breach notifications must include the type of information exposed, how the breach occurred (if known), and steps taken to mitigate future risks. Businesses are not required to notify the Attorney General, but failing to notify affected individuals may result in fines or civil actions.
Michigan Cyber Civilian Corps (MiC3)
Established under Executive Directive 2013-1, the Michigan Cyber Civilian Corps (MiC3) is a volunteer organization composed of cybersecurity professionals who assist state and local governments in responding to major cyber incidents. While not a law itself, MiC3 demonstrates Michigan’s commitment to coordinated cyber defense.
Michigan Computer Crimes Law (Mich. Comp. Laws § 752.791 et seq.)
This law criminalizes unauthorized access, data tampering, and computer-related fraud. Offenses such as introducing malware, stealing data, or disrupting systems are punishable by fines and imprisonment.
Michigan Electronic Transactions Act (Mich. Comp. Laws § 450.831 et seq.)
This act gives electronic signatures and records the same legal weight as paper documents. It requires that digital transactions use authentication and storage safeguards to prevent unauthorized alterations or disclosures.
Federal and Industry-Specific Cybersecurity Regulations That Affect Michigan Businesses
Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS)
PCI DSS applies to all Michigan businesses that process credit card transactions. Compliance requires strong encryption, access controls, and regular vulnerability testing.
Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA)
HIPAA applies to Michigan healthcare organizations and their business associates, mandating the protection of personal health information (PHI) through technical and administrative safeguards.
Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act (GLBA)
Financial institutions in Michigan must comply with GLBA, which requires data protection programs, employee training, and consumer privacy disclosures.
General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)
GDPR applies to Michigan businesses that collect or process personal data from EU citizens. It mandates explicit consent and provides individuals rights to control their personal information.
Cybersecurity Requirements for Financial Services Companies (NYDFS 23 NYCRR 500)
Financial entities in Michigan with operations in New York must comply with the NYDFS cybersecurity regulations, which include annual risk assessments, encryption, and multi-factor authentication.
NIST Cybersecurity Framework
The NIST Cybersecurity Framework is widely adopted across Michigan industries, including automotive, manufacturing, and healthcare. It provides best practices for identifying, protecting, detecting, responding to, and recovering from cyber incidents.
Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Act
Under the FTC Act, Michigan businesses must protect consumer information using reasonable security measures. The FTC can pursue enforcement actions for failure to safeguard data or misleading statements about security.
Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA)
If your Michigan business collects personal data from children under 13, COPPA applies. It requires verified parental consent and limits data collection and sharing.
Sarbanes-Oxley Act (SOX)
Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)
FERPA applies to Michigan schools and educational organizations, requiring consent before disclosing student records or personally identifiable information.
Cyber Incident Reporting for Critical Infrastructure Act (CIRCIA)
CIRCIA mandates that critical infrastructure operators in Michigan report significant cyber incidents to the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) within 72 hours of detection.
CAN-SPAM Act
The CAN-SPAM Act applies to all U.S. businesses, including those in Michigan, requiring accurate sender information, truthful subject lines, and clear unsubscribe options in email marketing.
Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS)
Michigan defense contractors must comply with DFARS cybersecurity requirements aligned with NIST SP 800-171 to safeguard controlled unclassified information.
Section 5 of the FTC Act (Unfair or Deceptive Practices)
Section 5 prohibits deceptive or negligent cybersecurity practices, holding Michigan businesses accountable for inadequate data protection or false claims of security.
More Michigan Cybersecurity Laws to Be Aware Of
Michigan has prioritized cybersecurity through its Michigan Cyber Initiative, a state-led effort to strengthen cyber defenses, foster public-private collaboration, and expand cybersecurity education. The initiative is managed by the Michigan Department of Technology, Management & Budget (DTMB) and the Michigan State Police Cyber Command Center (MSP CCC).
Businesses are encouraged to perform regular risk assessments, encrypt sensitive data, and develop incident response plans aligned with frameworks such as NIST or ISO 27001.
Conclusion
Compliance with Michigan cybersecurity laws is essential for protecting customer data and preserving business integrity. By following state and federal regulations — and adopting industry best practices, companies can reduce risk, avoid penalties, and build stronger digital resilience.
If your organization needs help aligning with Michigan cybersecurity compliance standards, we offer solutions to secure your data and ensure you meet all legal obligations.
Frequently Asked Questions About Michigan Cybersecurity Laws
- What is Michigan’s main cybersecurity law?
The Michigan Identity Theft Protection Act (Mich. Comp. Laws § 445.61) is the state’s primary cybersecurity law, requiring timely notification of data breaches and responsible handling of personal information. - Who enforces cybersecurity laws in Michigan?
The Michigan Attorney General’s Office enforces the Identity Theft Protection Act and other consumer protection statutes related to cybersecurity. - Does Michigan have a specific data breach reporting deadline?
The law requires notification “without unreasonable delay” after determining that a breach occurred and that misuse of personal data is likely. - Does Michigan require specific cybersecurity standards for businesses?
No, but businesses are encouraged to follow the NIST Cybersecurity Framework or similar standards to demonstrate reasonable data security practices. - What industries in Michigan face additional cybersecurity regulations?
Sectors such as finance, automotive manufacturing, healthcare, and defense have heightened requirements under federal frameworks like GLBA, HIPAA, and DFARS.
Read More Cybersecurity Laws by State:
Florida Cybersecurity Laws You Should Know (2025)
Ohio Cybersecurity Laws You Should Know (2025)
Virginia Cybersecurity Laws You Should Know (2025)
North Carolina Cybersecurity Laws You Should Know (2025)
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Readers should consult qualified legal counsel for advice specific to their organization or situation.
