As a result, many people have begun to worry about protecting their privacy. But now many public records are available to anyone over the Internet. For example, real estate transaction records and property assessment information are available through county and state government websites. Second, there are now private companies that search for information about consumers and compile that information into databases that they sell to other companies or individuals. Basically, any time you deal with a company or organization, it is possible that whatever they learn about you is recorded and can be sold to someone else.
Some stores sell that information to other marketers.
Credit card companies do the same thing. Obtain a free copy of your credit report each year to be sure it is accurate and to see what companies have requested information about you. Have your name removed from credit bureau mailing lists. Instruct major mailing list companies to remove your name. Monroe Blvd., Taylor, Mich 48180-1814.