A system and method for implementing an intermediary to preserve user
privacy and anonymity in electronic transactions. In one embodiment, a
computer implemented method for facilitating a transaction between a
subscriber and a vendor through an intermediary is provided. In this
embodiment, the method comprises the step of receiving at the
intermediary personal information from the subscriber to establish a user
account. The method also comprises the step of storing the personal
information for subsequent access. The method further comprises the step
of receiving a request from the subscriber to access the user account,
upon which the subscriber's identity is verified by the intermediary
against the personal information. The method also comprises the step of
the intermediary entering into a transaction with the vendor on behalf of
the subscriber based on the subscriber's instruction once the
subscriber's identity is successfully verified. The method further
comprises the step of notifying the subscriber upon completion of the
transaction. Importantly, the transaction is completed without disclosing
the subscriber's personal information to the vendor. As such, the
consumer remains anonymous with respect to the vendor.