Since the commercial launch of the internet in the mid-1990s, businesses, consumers, and regulators have worked together to manage how personal data is collected and used to power the online ecosystem. Over the past decade and a half, numerous individuals and organizations have introduced innovations to advance both the data collection and data protection aspects of online privacy.

2012 marks TRUSTe’s 15th year as a pioneer working to help advance the world of online privacy. During this time we have worked with thousands of businesses, interacted with millions of consumers, and partnered with hundreds of organizations around the world to help drive this important mission. As we reflect on the past 15 years we have been fortunate to both witness and help drive significant innovation and want to recognize and congratulate the other innovators who have pushed the boundaries, raised the bar, and set the standards for how data privacy is managed.

To share the stories and accomplishments of the individuals who spearheaded these key developments, we are launching The TRUSTe Privacy Pioneers and Mavericks Series. This series will highlight the “Pioneers” and “Mavericks” who have helped shape the world of online privacy through innovations encompassing technology, regulation, public opinion, academic research, and industry solutions.