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If you are finding that lately your junk mail is increasing, that’s because there are numerous ways that businesses can get your name and address. There's credit cards, stores, surveys, scanners, Internet, etc. Every time you fill something out you may be giving away sensitive information.
What can you do about it?
When you apply for your warranty, they ask many unneeded questions about your spending habits. Either avoid filling out this information or write that you don't want to receive any mail from vendors they sell your name to. See if filling out the warranty card is necessary. In most cases it is isn't.
Look at the type of cards you have. If you have a value card, they may be selling your spending habits to other companies. If you have a credit card, tell them not to give away your name.
Your credit report may also sell your information. If you get pre-approved credit card offers this is the case. Ask them not to sell your name.
Don't fall for those contests. You may win but the chances are slim to none. They either take your name for their own purposes or sell them or both.
If you receive unsolicited mail, they may also call you. If they do ask them to put you on their no call lists as well as not send you any mail.
When you order or use a catalog, tell them not to sell your name. Most catalogs network with others selling your name.
Take your name and address out of the phone book. This is a popular method of sending information as well as telemarketing. One method of getting rid of your junk mail is to use your first initial only, or use a female's name. It may be sexist but sometimes they target the man of the household.
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