[mmmooo]

Sooner or later I'm going to need to know the name of the company (unless they want to hire me sight unseen). What stops me from circumventing them then?

I think this is a ridiculous fear, and I've often told recruiters 'no thanks', because of this practice. I don't know you, you don't know me. If you don't want to trust me w/ the details which can directly impact both our lives (my potential future employer, your potential commission), why would I trust you with the details that impact just my life (my future career)?

[bronson]

To set up the interview, the recruiter sends your contact details to the company. Once that happens, as far as that company is concerned, the recruiter owns you.