I'm not happy with the idea either. However, considering that it's beneficial to keep track of criminals, I'd say that it's necessary for any crypto exchange no matter if it has Fiat trading pairs or not. For crypto purists, I think the best way to trade from one crypto to another would be via the use of atomic swaps. That's the only way to avoid all the KYC hassle, and to remain anonymous when trading cryptocurrencies.
At least, decentralized exchanges do not require KYC (as far as I'm aware) whereas centralized exchanges (like Shapeshift, Poloniex, etc) are obliged to comply with KYC/AML laws. But if governments decide to apply the laws to DEXs too, then the best way to escape this would be to do OTC or in-person trades.
People who got scammed will turn to government authorities and will seek for help because there are no crypto bodies and main institution in crypto. Because of this, government have no choice but to have a strict regulations for crypto exchanges.
Because of KYC, there are some solved cases in our local exchanges on where did the money went. It was successfully traced.
For now, Im fine with the system. And besides, at some exchanges, we can still withdraw without KYC. It's just that there is a limit. No way we can get full adoption without the involvement of government.
What I dislike is the difficulty to passed KYC even how clear your credentials is. It's take time and hassle if failed.
And pointing to Shapeshift, I dont like too the idea of having a KYC on instant exchangers. Their service is quite different in the usual crypto exchange.
With KYC now in motion for Shapeshift, I don't think that it can be called an "Instant Exchange" anymore. Before KYC came in, you could trade crypto within Shapeshift without the need to create an account. Now that KYC is enforced, you need to make an account to trade from one crypto to another.
Despite this, there are many other alternatives which don't require KYC (which makes them better than Shapeshift) such as Changelly and Sideshift.ai Which means, that people have a variety of options to choose from if they're not comfortable with KYC.