A group representing gun owners has requested an investigation by three federal agencies into the alleged misuse of personal data by the gun industry’s primary lobbying group. Gun Owners for Safety highlighted a ProPublica investigation revealing that the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF) provided sensitive information about gun buyers to political operatives while claiming to advocate for firearm owners’ privacy. The request was made to the FBI, the Federal Trade Commission, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), describing NSSF’s actions as “underhanded.”
Malcolm Smith of Gun Owners for Safety emphasized that protecting gun owners’ privacy is a nonpartisan issue, denouncing the exploitation of private data. Gun Owners for Safety, associated with the gun violence prevention organization Giffords, represents gun owners who support measures like enhanced background checks and safety locks to reduce gun-related incidents.
The ATF confirmed receipt of the letter but made no further comments, while the FBI, FTC, and NSSF did not respond to inquiries. The NSSF defended its actions as legal and within agreements, representing numerous firearms industry businesses. Although less prominent than the National Rifle Association, the NSSF maintains significant influence.
Senator Richard Blumenthal supported the call for an investigation, having previously sought details from the NSSF about data sharing practices, but received no response. He expressed concerns about privacy and demanded transparency.
ProPublica’s investigation discovered that several gun manufacturers had shared extensive customer data with the NSSF, creating a database used for political campaigning. Privacy experts suggest this could violate laws against deceptive business practices. Warranty cards from these manufacturers did not disclose the political use of customers’ data.
In the 2016 elections, the NSSF collaborated with Cambridge Analytica to enhance voter information by integrating additional personal data. ProPublica found that many individuals whose data was shared were unaware and discontented.
Smith, citing his long history with firearms and privacy concerns, urged federal action following government attempts to access large volumes of personal data. He highlighted the escalating privacy threats posed by both the NSSF and government agencies.
Smith’s longstanding passion for firearms began in his youth and intensified in response to political efforts to limit gun access. However, he joined Giffords to counteract extremism in gun rights advocacy. He viewed the actions of the NSSF and government as significant alarms concerning personal privacy rights.
