Some state use as driver s license number IRS includes on mailing labels when it send out tax forma Some employers use as identifier put it on badges, give out on request Many companies routinely ask for even though they don t actually need it. Read financial news on online communication service receive ads for books on investing File change of address name and new address provided to list managers who sell the list to mass mailers Data mining the process of using hardware and software to analyze consumer data. The findings result in consumer profiles. Used to find new customers as well as advertise to existing customers. Blockbuster Entertainment Corp uses rental histories to generate lists of recommended movies mailed to customers.
Airlines send incentives to frequent fliers who are flying less frequently.
Pasta company sends coupons to people who buy its competitor s products. They build profiles based on services used and interests. Call 800 number to hear local pollen count mailing list pitch for asthma drug Phone numbers of callers to 900 or 800 numbers auto recorded. Reverse phone directories can link number to name and address Process is automated. Owner may not be person who made call Wife of undercover policeman wanted to keep home address secret.