Simson Garfinkel, in his book Database Nation, describes how data technology has evolved to the point where almost everything has some meaning and combining seemingly innocuous data can yield a pretty good picture of someone’s life. In Beyond Fear, Bruce Schneier provides a compelling look at the tradeoffs between security and freedom and illustrates how security is often a game of smoke and mirrors to dissuade perceived fears while true dangers are left unprotected.
I recommend that you read the books cited above as well as Myth of Homeland Security by Marcus Ranum. There is also a wealth of information available from the non-profit consumer information and advocacy organization Privacy Rights Clearinghouse.
You can choose to not share your personal information with companies you don’t trust. However, whether it is with the state or federal government, your employer, or your local grocery store’s customer loyalty card, your personal information is out there and you need to try to stay informed and educated about how it is used and how it is protected and if it gets compromised in any way.
When it comes to the rights that have been stripped away by the PATRIOT Act and the broad powers that have been granted to law enforcement agencies in apparent conflict with the Constitution, it is your responsibility to be an informed citizen and voice your opinion with your votes. If you are concerned, you should write or call your United States Representative or Senator and express that.
Do your homework up front to make sure you make informed choices, and then be sure to periodically check data such as your bank statements and credit record to ensure they are accurate and have not been compromised in any way.