How to Use Consumer Reports' Security Planner to Stay Safer Online

To use Security Planner, simply go to SecurityPlanner.org and answer a few simple questions about the types of devices you own and your biggest security concerns. Then, you’ll receive an individualized action plan.

For example, if you want to learn about protecting your online accounts, you will receive tips on how to review your security settings on email and social media accounts, and details on how to choose a password manager and enable multifactor authentication.

If you have a home security camera or a gaming account, you’ll get targeted tips on how to set those up to be more secure and private.

If you’re concerned about governments accessing your data, you’ll get information on how tech companies respond when they receive requests for user information. We also have some guidance and links to more in-depth resources for people facing dangerous situations such as online stalking and harassment.

"With Security Planner, our aim from the beginning was to create an accessible, expertly reviewed, and regularly updated guide to help users take immediate steps to improve their digital hygiene,” says Ron Deibert, director of the Citizen Lab. “With Security Planner in the hands of Consumer Reports, we can rest assured that it reaches the widest possible audience and is shepherded by an independent organization with expertise and integrity."

“Our goal with CR Security Planner is to maintain the best resource for personalized privacy and security advice," says Ben Moskowitz, vice president of the Innovation Lab at Consumer Reports. "Instead of telling you everything you could do to secure your data and devices, we’ll help you figure out the most important steps to take. It’s fast, and it’s free."

The action plan lets you check off items as you’ve completed them. If there are too many items to complete all at once, or you just feel like coming back to the project later, you can print out your plan, copy the URL to refer to, or sign up for a free Consumer Reports account so you can log in and work through your plan. Tech enthusiasts can read through a list of all 50 tips.

You don’t need to be a Consumer Reports member to use Security Planner, nor do you need to input any data that identifies you. Security Planner builds on Consumer Reports’ core mission of working with consumers to create fairness, safety, and transparency in the marketplace.