How private are Private Messages?

[Gerald D]

Private Messages are only private to the extent that they will not disclose your e-mail address to the recipient and that the content of the message is kept away from the general readers of the forum. The forum administrator (currently me) can have view of the PM's. I generally see all PM titles, but rarely look at content.

We sometimes get spammers joining a forum with the sole intention of advertising via PM's - therefore I keep an eye on PM traffic. Also, I receive forwarded PM's when the original recipient has an objection.