I want to register some domains and although I plan to use NameCheap to get the free private registration, I still don't want to give out my address and other such stuff when I register. I'm assuming they won't let you skip that info, so what would happen if I put in a fake address when registering? I just don't feel comfortable having my address out there where people might see it. I suppose I could always put in a P.O. box but then I'd have to go out and get one of those...
There are certain registrars that will obscure all your contact details, although they might do this by actually owning the domain and letting you have the use of it, so check the small print. Basically you're not supposed to fake your whois contact details, and if you do then who really has the rights to the domain? If you register as a private individual you do have the right to opt out of giving your full details. This applies to .co.uk domains at least, but other country codes have different rules.
You should put real information because they have the rights to terminate your domain name if you enter fake details. You can however use your PO Box address instead of your residential address. If you use the Whois Privacy, anyone doing a Whois would not be able to see your details, only the registrars would have your details and they will not reveal them unless required by law.
As many are pointing out, i think its important to make sure you hve your genuine details in place with regards to having a bit of strength behind you with claiming true ownership of a domain, you can never predict what may happen in the future and you know that people and companies can find loopholes that allow them to grab things. I totally understand you wanting to protect your privacy, the reality though is with determination, someone can still find details on others if they really want to, theres always a way, legally, illegally but you know it can be done. Generally i would advise having correct details in there.
I don't think there would be any problem to provide the information which is required for registration process, just care that you should buy domain name from reliable registrars.