WSJ via MSN: “Our digits have become one of the most valuable pieces of data. Just take a look at your texts: How many authentication codes, receipts, reminders or other business messages have you received lately? There are legitimate reasons to hand over your number. And then there are…more questionable applications. (Looking at you, “free” airport Wi-Fi.) The reason you’re getting a barrage of text spam and scams is because some businesses share or sell your phone number once they get a hold of it. That’s why I think everyone should get a burner number. In my latest column, I make a case for setting up a second line to protect your primary one. Virtual calling apps can assign you a new 10-digit throwaway number. When it gets too noisy, you can delete it and swap it for a new one. You can use other burner identities, too. Set up a disposable email with Maildrop or obscure your real address with Apple’s Hide My Email or Firefox Relay. Capital One and Citi can create burner credit-card numbers. Make up a go-to burner birthday, while you’re at it. A burner number is an inexpensive way to add another line of defense to guard your precious digital life. And it only takes a few minutes to get started.”