About PRISM
The Center for Privacy and Security for Marginalized and Vulnerable Populations (PRISM) seeks to address computer security and privacy issues in current and emerging technology that affect and design security principles that make computing safer and more secure for marginalized and vulnerable populations. In doing so, PRISM seeks to create solutions that improve benefits and mitigate harms for all people. Supported by the National Science Foundation’s Secure and Trustworthy Cyberspace (SaTC) program, PRISM brings together researchers, students, and community partners to design technology that reflects the real-life needs. Our goal is simple: ensure computing systems protect people, build trust, and work fairly across different lived experiences.
Our Mission
PRISM’s mission is to advance privacy and cybersecurity research that reflects the real experiences of marginalized and vulnerable populations. Our work is guided by four interconnected focus areas that help us understand how technology can either create harm or support safety, dignity, and trust.
Power Dynamics
PRISM studies how technology can shape power in everyday life. We examine how digital systems may enable surveillance, control, or coercion in workplaces, relationships, and institutions and how these risks can be reduced.
Autonomy, Control, & Belonging
We focus on protecting people’s ability to make choices, manage their digital spaces, and feel safe and connected online. Our work supports psychological well-being alongside technical security.
Sociodemographic Context
PRISM centers how factors such as race, gender, disability, income, and language shape privacy and security risks. We challenge “one-size-fits-all” assumptions and design technology that reflects real lived experiences.
Interfaces & Interaction
We study how design choices affect safety and inclusion. By improving interfaces and user interactions, PRISM helps ensure technology supports secure, equitable, and accessible experiences for all users.
Our Approach
Digital technologies shape many parts of daily life, from paying bills and accessing healthcare to learning online and staying connected with others. While these tools offer convenience and opportunity, they do not benefit everyone equally.
Many people face barriers because technologies are often designed without considering the needs of all populations. Limited access, lack of digital literacy, and design choices that overlook disability, language, or lived experience can expose people to greater privacy and security risks.
PRISM takes a people-centered approach to research. We work directly with affected populations, use interdisciplinary methods, and partner with community organizations to understand where harms occur and how technology can be redesigned to better protect those most at risk.
Our Impact
Advancing Research
PRISM produces research that helps the security and privacy community better understand how technology affects marginalized and vulnerable populations. Our work informs the design of safer systems, tools, and policies that reflect real-world use and risk.
Strengthening Communities
Through partnerships, outreach, and accessible resources, PRISM helps communities build knowledge and confidence around digital safety. We translate research into practical guidance that supports individuals, organizations, and policymakers in creating more secure and equitable technology environments.
Learn how PRISM research supports communities
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