this has been discussed in a few threads in the last couple days.
bossland has stated in no uncertain terms 'honorbuddy forums will stay open to the public'
bossland gets a percentage of their business from people who stumble in on the suggestion that honorbuddy can do this or that. they are able to read the forums to analyze the state of success or failure, availability of public profiles, and a general feel for the community.
privatizing the forums will not stop anyone from entering when access can be obtained for the low low price of 25usd. and its not even 25usd if you offer access to the forums when a 3 day trial is purchased.
sure, you stop a few nutjobs but it won't stop anyone willing to spend a couple bucks.
but since bossland has ruled on the subject, further discussion is a waste of time.