My friend recommended me this exchange to trade but I wanted to KYC in advance to avoid any surprises. It may be strict, but I passed it, just followed the instructions and got verified in a couple of days. No complaints of any edited photos from them, the procedure is clear and straightforward. So far so good, hope it stays that way 
KYC-ing in advance does not mean you'd avoid any surprises. Any centralized and custodial exchange can request you to reverify and/or request further personal information. I suggest at least skimming their terms of service.
Further, HitBTC is known for its shady practices -- selective scamming and problem/s typically arise once a user has deposited money to them particularly relatively significant amounts where they get the surprise invasive KYC.
You still have time to get out
Call me cynical, but I don't think the main purpose of their story is to share their "KYC experience" from HitBTC. They created an account, minutes later hit --pun intended-- this specific thread that's been buried under several other accusation threads about how their KYC procedure is clear and easy, and then went under right after.