Sorry you feel lectured buddy, was not my intention. And you're right, I did make unfounded assumptions about you.
Anyway, they did not overlook the oldest security technique in computer history (encryption/cryptography) without reason - and you gotta give those fuckers credit, those mountain goats gave the most powerful military in the world a run for its money for a decade.
I'm sure they had a reason, but I suspect a lot of it is that they lacked sufficient technical expertise, rather than it being a deliberate decision of an informed individuals. That they didn't encrypt all the information at their hideout indicates a lack of technical knowledge.
That said, you're right that they're extremely good at hiding via more conventional means.
Anyway, they did not overlook the oldest security technique in computer history (encryption/cryptography) without reason - and you gotta give those fuckers credit, those mountain goats gave the most powerful military in the world a run for its money for a decade.