But, on the SSL/HTTPS front - I've worked with many corporate clients over the years that won't even talk to you if you aren't providing an HTTPS solution. It doesn't matter if it makes sense, some IT guy works their management into a frenzy and it becomes a MUST have.

You didnt read what i said? I said the proxy owner has your IP.

Since for the most part proxy servers exist to hide IPS (it's almost their entire purpose), then it would take a court order in most cases to get my real ip from the proxy service. At that point I've probably done something illegal and deserve it. I'm not trying to protect myself against the government - just the random psycho with the ability to use Google Earth ;)

He may have my IP but he can not 'sniff' my traffic if I take the steps needed to make sure he can't.

People freak out too much over their IP address anyway. Mine changes multiple times a day and only my ISP knows which IP address I was using at the time. In other words even if you do get a hold of my IP you're not going to find out much about me.

Most people will willing hand over personal information anyway. You'd likely find out more about me by searching these forums then you would attempting to locate me based on my IP.