Scammers and how do they know so much about you

Did you get unsolicited phone calls today? On Wednesday, we had a funeral to attend. I'm so glad I had my cellphone ringer on silence. Within three hours I got the most spam calls ever! At least 10 of them!!! It's so annoying!

As per recent article in AARP's February 2019 publication, the problem it seems is that too often we give our data away.
I will summarize here the major points:

• Do you frequently enter contests? I personally don't do this.
• Do you mail in warranty cards? I have done it few times.
• Do you fill out surveys? I might have filled out few questionnaires, rating of hotels or restaurants. Try not to include your home or car ownership info.
• Do you share personal updates on social media? These days we see many sharing on Facebook and Instagram a lot of personal information. Try not to post real time updates. I do sometimes on Instagram.
• Do you live in the US? Sadly, many public records are available at federal, state, county and city levels! Private companies can use and sell your data. Sadly, it's 100% legal! So we are all vulnerable!
• Do you toss away your mail that has some personal information? Best to shred all mal that has your name, address, account numbers and other personal data. A messy garbage wouldn't deter a bad guy. I personally tear into tiny bits my mail. I don't have the patience to shred. Do you shred yours?
• Did someone in your family died recently? Scammers use obituaies and learn the names of vulnerable widows, widowers, children and grandchildren. Tip: try to keep personal information in obituaries to a minimum.

​What's your way of dealing with scammers? Robocalls? Let's hear from you.