Gun Industry Accused of Secretly Profiling Millions of Gun Owners for Political Gain

Breaking News: Gun Industry Accused of Exploiting Firearm Owners' Data A federal court complaint filed on Monday alleges that the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF), the gun industry's largest trade group, violated the privacy rights of millions of gun owners by sending their personal information to political operatives without consent. The lawsuit, filed by two major law firms, closely mirrors a ProPublica investigation that exposed a decades-long secret program operated by NSSF. The complaint claims that NSSF collected and shared data on gun owners with third-party vendors, who then used this information for targeted marketing and voter registration efforts. Timeline of Events: 2025: A ProPublica investigation reveals a secret program operated by NSSF to collect and share firearm owner data. September 25, 2025: Two major law firms file a federal court complaint against NSSF, alleging violation of gun owners' privacy rights. Ongoing: The lawsuit seeks damages and injunctive relief for the alleged exploitation of firearm owners' data. Immediate Impact and Response: The lawsuit's filing has sparked widespread concern among gun owners and advocacy groups. "This is a clear example of how the gun industry is using our personal information against us," said Sarah Brady, president of the Brady Campaign to Prevent Gun Violence. NSSF has yet to comment on the allegations. Background Context: NSSF, founded in 1961, is a leading trade association for the firearms and ammunition industries. The organization's secret program, revealed by ProPublica, aimed to collect and share data on gun owners with third-party vendors. This information was then used for targeted marketing and voter registration efforts. What Happens Next: The lawsuit will now proceed through the federal court system, where NSSF will have the opportunity to respond to the allegations. The outcome of this case may have significant implications for the gun industry's data collection practices and the rights of firearm owners. *This story is developing. Information compiled from Propublica reporting.*