We obsess over the anonymous views. We check the analytics. We try to reverse-engineer who it might be.

People switch to private mode for several legitimate reasons:

If you're looking for a to write about this phenomenon, here is a draft that tends to get high engagement because it’s relatable, slightly humorous, and sparks a debate.

But here is the funny part: When we do it, it’s "market research." When someone else does it to us, we immediately think, "Who is this mystery person? Are they trying to hire me? Are they trying to recruit me? Is it my ex-boss?"