Travel

As the readers are probably aware by now, I do consulting, that's my business.
Privacy and security consulting, as any other kind, encompasses various tasks and activities. There is learning and doing, research and consulting itself, or dealing with and helping clients. While some of these tasks are accomplished using technology, some still require travel and physical presence.

I do travel by all the available means; from trains and buses to planes and cars. Won't mention more exotic means of transportation here.
While traveling one tends to see places and watch people, observe things outside of one locale. Great opportunity to learn!

Needless to say, people in big cities are less approachable and welcoming than, say, in the country. That is not to say that they are more on guard. If folks outside of big metro areas probably won't readily chit-chat with you or introduce themselves, the rest most likely will. But these same people will be walking or standing next to you wearing some sort of id right there, with all the variety of information - picture, full name, company name and who knows what else! So, no, they don't talk to strangers, they just silently give them all the info.

Now, some might not see huge problem with others knowing your name. Maybe not, unless those are good at social engineering and can elicit the rest of information. And that could be by either going direct route - from you, or just searching for every other bit - address, car, family, income, etc.

Where was I going with this? Just because you think you are "on guard" and don't tell anyone anything, don't assume you are not displaying any information.
And, once we are on the topic of travel, those luggage tags pretty much just yell out advertisement to thieves "if you like what you find inside, there is more at this address. And if you don't want to come twice, please call the number to make sure nobody's home!!"