Abstract: A method and tool for facilitating data and commercial transactions over a public network enable a user to maintain full control of personal data. Information, including payment information, is provided by a supplier to a user requesting provision of a service or product. In order to facilitate a transaction, the user arranges, via a bank, credit card institution or other fiduciary organization, for payment directly to the account of the supplier together with an identification of the goods or service required. Thereafter, the bank, credit card institution or other fiduciary organization arranges for payment directly to the account of the supplier and identifies the required goods or service to the supplier. The goods or service are then delivered to the user. Such transactions may be optionally performed by use of a single step on the part of the user.