Unsolicited eMail accounts for most internet traffic.
Apparently enough money is made through uneducated consumers to continue the practice.
Some things to consider doing to minimize spam:
*NEVER* reply to an unsolicited eMail.
*NEVER* "click here to unsubscribe" or "click to be removed", etc...
*NEVER* click anywhere on a unsolicited eMail, label it as 'Junk' and/or delete it.
*NEVER* click anywhere on an eMail [such as a one] from a financial institution, go to your browser, and enter the main [known] address manually, use a bookmark, Google to the site, ask some ones advice, or call the business directly if unsure. -Scams APPEAR like real sites, designed to steal any information entered.
When filling out online forms, if possible choose *not* to have "partners" (or the like) contact you.
Create a second eMail account.
Use one eMail address for trusted individuals, and the other one for questionable circumstances. Delete everything in the junk account often.
More advanced:
Change Mail's 'Reply-To' address:
While reeking havok with friends and family, altering the 'Reply-To' field will usually insure a person will respond, if necessary.
Create a new eMail, click the 'View' menu, select 'Reply-To Address Field' and alter your address. i.e. frigtardATgmailDOTcom, or frigtard@gmail.no-spam.com