I encountered them years ago when college students were doing tourism surveys.....again you could choose to volunteer information or decline. No penalty was involved. There may have been some little token of appreciation if you answered questions or filled out and mailed a questionaire.
If you like this stuff, fine. Make sure they take your name off the Do Not Call list and knock yourself out. Maybe they will set up a special “Call ME! ME! ME!” list for all of you who love to “share”. As for me, do not unnecessarily obstruct traffic. Keep your nose out of my business.
How exactly did college students obtain the authority to stop traffic on public roads?