FinancialPrivacyNow.org is a project of Consumers Union, the nonprofit publisher of Consumer Reports. Its goal is to inform consumers about how sensitive information about their finances is being increasingly used without their permission and how consumers can take steps individually and collectively to regain control over this sensitive information.

FinancialPrivacyNow.org provides consumers with timely information about steps being taken by both industry and government which may impact their financial privacy. We also provide information about and a mechanism for consumers to contact elected officials about the importance of protecting consumers’ financial privacy.

Consumers Union, publisher of Consumer Reports, is an independent, nonprofit testing and information organization serving only consumers. We are a comprehensive source for unbiased advice about products and services, personal finance, health and nutrition, and other consumer concerns. Since 1936, our mission has been to test products, inform the public, and protect consumers. Our income is derived solely from the sale of Consumer Reports and our other services, and from noncommercial contributions, grants, and fees. Consumers Union is governed by a board of 18 directors, who are elected by CU members and meet three times a year. Consumers Union's President, Jim Guest, oversees a staff of more than 450.

We report on current issues of concern to consumers. Our staff of researchers, editors, and consumer advocates brings you in-depth information on matters that affect your health, your money, and your well-being.

Our three advocacy offices and Consumer Policy Institute address the crucial task of influencing policy that affects consumers, which is so integral to Consumers Union's mission.

Consumers Union's advocates deal with consumer issues that are regional, national, and even international in scope from their offices in Washington, D.C.; San Francisco, California; and Austin, Texas. They testify before Federal and state legislative and regulatory bodies, petition government agencies, and file lawsuits on behalf of the consumer interest.

The Consumer Policy Institute, at Consumers Union's headquarters in Yonkers, New York, promotes the consumer interest through research and education projects--conferences, policy papers, and comment on legislative and regulatory initiatives.

Consumers Union's No-Commercialization Policy

We accept no advertising, and buy any products we test on the open market. We are not beholden to any commercial interest. Our income is derived from the sale of Consumer Reports and our other publications and information services, and from nonrestrictive, noncommercial contributions, grants and fees. Our ratings, reports, and information are intended solely for the use of our readers. Neither the ratings or the reports or any other information, or the name of Consumer Union or any of its publications, may be used in advertising or for any other commercial purpose, or for any use on the Internet. Consumers Union will take all steps open to it to prevent commercial use of its materials, its name, or the name of Consumer Reports.

FinancialPrivacyNow Outreach Materials