Hmmm, not sure about generic Pirate ID, but the faction pirates can use them, and even sell transports. I'd also certainly like to see more commodity theft - lots of unlawful factions are supposed to attack targets with needed supplies according to rumors and such.
I'm not sure I agree Freighters are non-combatants. Certainly they're armed heavily enough to be used aggressively. With that in mind, they would also probably be used in more of a support role.
Personally, I think Piracy and all those other situations should fall under the same guidelines. Why should traders get to ignore certain rules?