...Is this because I'm in the EU? Or did I just pick bad exchanges?
Almost all exchanges were forced to introduce mandatory verification in accordance with AML/KYC, which are aimed at preventing criminal activity. If this rule is not followed, the exchange may lose its license.
You can only remain anonymous if you use DEX.
Are you guys all outside the EU?
Is this because I'm in the EU?
No, not because of you are from EU.
A regulated exchange will collect your identity documents to comply with your government norms.
But, here we are discussing about submitting documents to prove residency address which come under level-3 verification as per common practices of KYC. (Level-1 is without documents but submitting your name and DOB and level-2 is about submitting select government documents for proving your name and/or your photo or selfie). There could be level-4 and 5 which includes video and documents of your family members.
Alright, that is what I thought. I was slightly confused from some other replies earlier in the thread.
Thanks for clearing it up.