The EFF is a group of specialized attorneys, resourceful technologists, policy analysts and research activists. Part of the EFF’s mission statement is to ensure that originators of electronic communications have the same political rights as the creators of books, newspapers and other customary media. The group's objective is to confront cutting-edge digital rights issues by defending privacy, free speech, consumer rights and invention.

The EFF is mostly supported by donations and is an accredited observer of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), one of the 16 specialized United Nations agencies. The WIPO helps protect and promote intellectual property throughout the world. The EFF is also a member of the Global Network Initiative, a non-governmental organization that protects Internet privacy rights for individuals and prevents Internet censorship by authoritarian governments.

The EFF has a wide range of mission statements, which include the following:

• Monitor changes of the law in legislation
• Promote laws that better accommodate new technology
• Maintain a database for current news and educational information
• Support litigation to assist in protecting, lengthening and reserving First Amendment rights relating to telecommunication and computer technology
• Support educational events pertaining to civil liberty issues with the communication media
• Improve communication with policymakers about issues relating to open and free communication