Hi,
I experienced this problem today and would ask that Grounspeak discontinue this practice.
I was using a proxy.
When away from home using open wifi hotspots there is a real risk of problems from software like firsheep (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Firesheep) and other malicious software. A proxy protects my internet session, accounts and passwords.
Since I have to log into Geocaching.com to use my account they have my name and, as a premium member, know my home address, credit card details etc. It is not like I could use the proxy to anonymously post inappropriate logs or messages.
If someone wanted to post anonymously then tor + sock puppet account would easily work around any proxy blocklists.
All that the use of proxy blocklists achieves is to cause problems for legitimate users. They don't work reliably. There are good and legitimate reasons for using a VPN (virtual private network) as I do when using open wifi hotspots.
I'm sure those who introduced this meant well and thought it was a good idea but it has significantly negative unintended consequences,
If Groundspeak feel they have good reason's for doing this then let us hear them and answer them.
At the very least turn it off for signed in paying customers. You know who I am and you know where I live as soon as I sign in and I can't use my account without doing so. My use of a VPN to protect my internet connection is reasonable behaviour, quite frankly more people should be doing it.
Regards,
Michael (of Thirteen00).
