No, it isn't because of privacy. It is because they get a cut of the total volume processed on the cards and, as a bonus, they get details about where you spend

No, it isn't because of privacy. It is because they get a cut of the total volume processed on the cards and, as a bonus, they get details about where you spend your money. They aren't operating a charity. You also left our hotels, airlines, etc. United Airlines makes $$ by signing up members for the United Cards by Chase.