I've been burned when someone recognized my identity based on where I live.

Some of it might have to do with the fact taht last year we did a secret pal swap for the year and some people were hiding where they were from so they would not be found out!! I think some of it too is that some newer people have seen that and followed suit. No biggie!

Privacy for some, I totally get that.

When they join they say in their intro, "Hi from..." and then it says "in hiding. I don't understand.

again ... it's up to each member to make that choice.

it is not for us to question, speculate or criticize.