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Corey was a bit freaked. He received a box in the mail containing a razor and shaving cream. The box said, “Happy Birthday, from Gillette.” Whiskey tango foxtrot?

Corey has bought a few Gillette products in the past, but he really can’t remember filling out an a form providing them with this information.

The Consumerist had a pretty good idea of how, but decided to send his question in through Gillette’s website to see what they would say.

We sent his in his question through Gillette’s website.

What they had to say for themselves, inside.

---

October 6, 2006

Dear Mr. Popken,

Thank you for contacting The Gillette Company.

We are always concerned when a complaint is received and appreciate your bringing the matter to our attention. We apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused. We have an outside source that provides us with this information.

Again, thank you for taking the time to contact us. Please let us know if you have any additional questions or comments.

Mai X.
Consumer Service Associate
010823372A

“We have an outside source that provides us with this information.” — This seems to confirm our suspicions: Gillette knows you bought products from them. They bought your date of birth from a third-party information broker. Gillette combined the two and sent you a birthday surprise.

While odd, Gillette is within its legal rights to do so, as they have a pre-existing business relationship with you.

Hey, it’s a free razor. Just make sure the paranoia doesn’t affect the steadiness of your hand.

Want more consumer news? Visit our parent organization, Consumer Reports, for the latest on scams, recalls, and other consumer issues.