A system for providing an internet-based search mechanism to enable an anonymous user to search for a resource provider. The system comprises a user device adapted to host an internet-based portal such that a user can submit an anonymous request for information relating directly to a resource. A secure server adapted to host a database containing resource provider information, to communicate with the user device via a communications network and to alert at least a first resource provider is also provided. The secure server is also adapted to initiate an anonymous communication channel between at least the first resource provider and the user via the internet-based portal and the communications network. A method for carrying out such a search is also disclosed.