Personally, it doesn't matter to me if I know my visitor's real name or not, I will always respect him and use the name that he's given me. But sometimes a visitor will say, Oh btw, my name isn't Herman it's Ralph and I trust that they feel more comfortable with me knowing their real name, for some reason. I would NEVER abuse that trust, that's for sure. I have been given full names, work phone numbers, full company names...what am I gonna do? Call the receptionist and blow his cover?
One time, a visitor accidentally put his work cell phone on call-forwarding to my number. His office (in another province) kept calling me, by accident. It was a little embarrassing but I completely covered his ass (I contacted him by e-mail immediately), because I wanted him to return, which he has, numerous times!
I think that, if you're being selective, and using quality service providers, you should know whether or not your secret is safe with them, Reginald!
And, in response to haymitch, I'm so sorry that your experience has taught you to be so protective, but I totally get it. I get asked my real name a lot and I don't understand the need for that info. My real name is Alex, btw! :eyebrows: