Identity verification

[Vince-And-Donna0]

I noticed that Airbnb is not always verifying identities with a photo ID . They ask for legal name and phone number and if that can’t be verified then Airbnb will ask for a photo ID . How are we as host ensured that we are renting to a real individual? Even at a hotel they ask for a DL .  How are we protected ? 

[Marie8425]

@Vince-And-Donna0 

The facts are someone being validated  photo id or not does not  guarantee the person  making the reservation  is the same person validated.  That isn't possible.  All Airbnb  can validate is a name is legal  and not potentially  performing illegal  acts.  I  now  post in my listing, all guests  must be verified by  Airbnb.  I  require viewing of a legal id that has the same guest name verified by  Airbnb.

[Vince-And-Donna0]

I see that now and understand I was mistaken .  I was under the impression that there was some kind of credit / background check when Airbnb verified .    I have instant booking on and I’m concerned that if I cancel it will affect my rating . 

[Marie8425]

@Vince-And-Donna0 

I am sorry let me explain better.  Airbnb validated Marie and I don't  have a criminal record.  Is it  Marie talking to you or  my sister, my husband,  maybe my neighbor there is  no way to  validate who is on my computer.

[Sophia]

Hello @Vince-And-Donna0, I hope you're well 😊

I came across an article from the Resource Center regarding Identity Verification, it says: 

We require primary Hosts, Co-Hosts and booking guests to be verified for all stays on Airbnb. Verifying your identity means verifying certain personal information, such as your legal name, address, phone number or other contact details. In some cases, we can do this without any additional info needed from you. In other cases, we may need to ask for more information...

What info we ask for:

• Legal name, address and/or other personal information
• Photo of government ID
• Selfie

Find out more information and read the full article >> here <<

Hope this helps!