Smartphone Security Checker

On December 18, 2012, the Federal Communications Commission and its public and private sector partners released a new online tool, the “Smartphone
Security Checker,” to help consumers protect their mobile devices this holiday season.

The “” is a free, easy-to-use online tool that creates a 10-step smartphone action plan to help consumers protect their mobile devices from smartphone-related cybersecurity threats. Almost half of Americans now own a smartphone and close to 20% have been the victim of mobile cybercrime. The FCC worked with smartphone security experts from the Department of Homeland Security, The Federal Trade Commission, The National Cyber Security Alliance, CTIA-The Wireless Association, Lookout, and other public and private sector partners on these mobile security best practices.

“With less than half of smartphone owners using passwords to protect their devices,” said FCC Chairman Julius Genachowski, “this new tool will be of particular value to millions of Americans. The holiday gift-giving season is a perfect time to remind consumers to take simple steps, like setting a password, to protect themselves from mobile security threats.”