IDENTITY THIEF? Why do some users hide/shield their identities?

I don't see the big deal. Not everyone's comfortable with the overly-social aspects of social media. Not everyone wants people knowing every last detail about them. I share what I want to share, and for the rest, I'm fine with saying that it's "Noneya."

I don't see how it's unprofessional to choose what you want to show on social media. I do question the professionalism of criticizing people for what information they choose to share, as if we have some sort of RIGHT to it.

I agree with a lot of what you are saying SGM Matthew Quick. For all the members out there who are concerned about getting punished somehow IAW UCMJ (or some other reason) -- I would note out that we have some of the most senior service members (both enlisted and officer) from all the branches here on RallyPoint. For example, the seniormost enlisted leader in the ENTIRE US Army Reserve SGM Luther Thomas is on RallyPoint with his date of rank, photo, etc.

Having said all this, however, I do respect every member's right to choose which types of information/photos to include in their profile. For some people, being able to limit certain information may be a compelling value proposition for RallyPoint vs. another community, and I can respect that. Enabling this was a clear decision by the RallyPoint team upfront, which supports that point as well.

Until I was pushed into retirement, my electronic footprint was next to non existence due to my view of OPSEC, COMSEC, etc.
Once I needed to started looking for civilian employment I had to make myself visible to the world. Of course, I utilize various things (such as Lifelock) and other means to attempt to remain secure (which in our current state of technology is next to impossible). Once I decided to become a visible commodity to the world - I took the uncertain chance of not being a victim of the unscrupulous individuals on the web.
I hoped that here on RallyPoint that everyone was of an ethical and professional nature and mindset. I welcomed the chance to speak about issues with members of all ranks and the chance to get advice on various matters that someone might have more knowledge of.
In my opinion, this site has been a welcome addition to help military members with various issues and the promotion of goodwill. Plus, a lot of members are also on LinkedIn which helps with the transition process into the civilian realm.
I do understand the idea about repercussions of things said - there are still pockets of 'the good ole boy' mentality at various bases (which is sad). Until I was retired, I didn't feel able to make certain references to real life examples of leadership situations I had been exposed to or endured without the possibility of repercussions. Being retired, I no longer have that looming over my head - so I feel I can address issues or give examples (without using names of course).