The simplest way to deal with telemarketers is one at a time. When they call tell them to "Put this number on the no-call list". They are required to do so. After a while, your calls should diminish substantially. I only wish it that easy to get off spam lists.

As far as privacy goes; Oh, I don't even want to get into it. One thing for sure, I NEVER give my SSN to anyone except select government agencies (IRS,Dept. of Revenue, VA). Impossible to live this way? No, just frusterating, I have car insurance, bank account, cellphone, credit cards. It can be done.