I think people who think the internet is a safe haven for information live in coco land. Even 2 way radio communication is monitored. We had a problem on another forum where we suspected that the admin was collecting info from PM's and using it to steal customers. A potential customer would send another member a PM requesting a quote for items. Someone asked the question, whether or not admin could read peoples PM's and the response was well they shouldn't because it is unethical but yes admin can access people PM's if they "need to".