[_Lemon_]

I personally feel this is a really minor problem (if that!)

I found my personal phone number appearing on customer bank statements as a Stripe merchant. That's a bigger deal than exposing an e-mail address, but it's still a minor issue.

Do you know how Google Checkout solves this? It explicitly states what's public information to buyers so I can make the decision of what I'm exposing.

[michaelschade]

(I work at Stripe)

Sorry this wasn't clear! I can imagine it was a shock to have your number appear; I'll make sure we make this clearer when signing up.

For some background: it's a card network rule that you include a customer service phone number; this is intended to help reduce confusion with your customers and to ensure they have an opportunity to reach out to you. Since Google is an aggregator, they may include a phone number they control if you choose to not expose your own.

One approach you might consider is to have your phone number respond with a message suggesting users email you or visit a certain page on your website. The important bit is just that your customers have a clear way to get in touch with you.