Silly people. Such "privacy" is a major reason the scammers thrive, and, from a true pro much less just someone at home can figure out where if not who who you are so no privacy.
Happened to look at my "sent" email (or ya I've had the same email for 25 years, and one way or another the same screen name for just as long on all forums around the globe) which I had never done. Seems I do have contact info for over 200 airgun deals not counting other airgun sthuff. And now I just like to deal with people I know either from that list or people who know other airgun folks - also shot FT for 15 years and airgunners know other airgunners.
People certainly do have a right to attempt hiding bt a wonky screen name like ripemoff or booger2hoes, no email, no stat, no nothing, meh.
And as I believe the OP tried to bring up, I/you can not help others without knowing at least where they are. I also don't worry about thieves coming to the house (tho I do not have hundreds of Gold bars & perhaps you do?) as we do have say at least a $20 camera and the means to protect the family.
Keeping some info from the never ending Spammers makes some since but that's about it.
Yes everyone who thinks "they" are keeping track of you, "they" ARE. Have been for years just now with a cell phone "they" know if you've been to lowes or used a CC or ... .
Everyone remember Swenson -aka "they" ? (the old timers will) . Nice of the forum to allow any.everyone but when I see (due to new name... takes a minute) old "mousefart" and several others knew what was coming and steered clear.
Legally have some airgun fun ya'll. Hey for everyone "hiding" a pretty picture (and remember it does not work)
John