Privacy guides

Free guides, written in plain English. If you would rather have someone set things up with you, see our setup service.

VPN Basics

What a VPN Actually Does (and Does Not Do)A plain-English explanation of what a VPN protects, what it doesn't, and whether you need one.
Is Public Wi-Fi Safe? What a VPN ChangesHow risky airport, hotel and cafe Wi-Fi really is today, what a VPN adds, and the habits that matter more.
How to Set Up a VPN on iPhone, Android, Windows and MacStep-by-step guidance for installing a VPN app on your phone or computer, plus what to check before you trust it.
VPN vs Proxy vs Tor: What Is the Difference?Three ways to hide your IP address, how each one works, what each one protects, and which to use for what.
Do You Need a VPN at Home?When a VPN makes sense on your home network, when it doesn't, and what to do instead if your worry is trackers or your internet provider.
Free VPN vs Paid VPN: What You Give UpWhy most free VPNs cost you in other ways, how they make money, and how to tell a safe free option from a risky one.
How to Check That Your VPN Is Really WorkingA five-minute test for IP, DNS and IPv6 leaks and a working kill switch, so you know your VPN is protecting you.

Why Private Email Matters and What "End-to-End Encrypted" MeansHow regular email exposes your messages, what end-to-end encryption really protects, and what to look for in a private email service.
How to Switch From Gmail Without Losing AnythingA step-by-step plan for moving to a new email address safely, keeping your old mail, and updating your accounts without missing anything.
How to Spot a Phishing EmailThe warning signs of phishing emails and texts, what to do if you clicked, and where to report scams in the United States.

Password Managers ExplainedWhat a password manager does, why it is safer than reusing passwords, how to choose one, and how to get started in an afternoon.
What to Do After a Data BreachA step-by-step checklist for U.S. readers after a company tells you your data was exposed, including credit freezes and reporting identity theft.