Information Harvesting at Retail Stores

From: Edw. Peach (bogus_addie_at_none.net)
Date: 04/15/05 

Date: Fri, 15 Apr 2005 08:50:16 -0400

I recall a few years ago some news traveling online about how certain
companies were harvesting online information and selling it. Some
were even able to link the email addresses to home addresses.

I often shop at a computer store in my area called MicroCenter. They
are really quite good, well stocked, with great prices. I've noticed
the cashiers are relentless about getting the email and home addresses
from each customer. The first time this happened, I recalled that
article I read about information harvesting. For that reason, I
refused to give her any of my information. She told me it was
necessary in case I had any problems with my purchased item.
Funny...I thought that's what a hardcopy receipt was all about. I
told her I'd take my chances with just the receipt.

I wonder...if any of these companies are gathering this information
and making it available to someone who wants to send us crap mail to
our homes as well?