Were they just screening questions? If so, the company just has to make sure you're qualified and that there's no conflict of interests.
But I hear you. Shopping companies are infamous for their superlative stance in contract work. But in their defense, they're in the position to be. Most of them have no shortage of independent contractors, and there's plenty of people willing to take your place if you want to quit. It's how MF gets off paying people $10 for 27 page gas reports with over 14 digital photos. It's simple supply and demand. As long as there's people willing to do work for that low a price, from their perspective why budge? Same with this. They (as in any shopping company) can "lead" you, or jerk you around because there's plenty of people who can take your job if you don't want it.