photo id

[Evelyn44]

Hi, I contacted a host to book the house and she asked for a copy of government issued photo ID. Is this necessary?

[Martha-and-Dennis0]

So if a host takes in a guest and doesn't know who they are, it is kinda like picking up hitchhikers, isn't it????

[Kristina142]

yes it does go both ways, but there are other things that could be done to verify.  I know the host doesn't see the ID, but thats not what would bother me, as ppl give reviews on the hosts etc. I would rather, fax a copy to the host themselves, then have it stored online.  Atleast if something went wrong, you know who you sent your ID to.

[Ange2]

That would work for me.  Or Airbnb should delete info once verified.

[Cody40]

How can I take another verification ID photo if I messed up the first one 

[Eric638]

I concur with Kristina.  I've hosted twice and I've been a guest numerous more times.  I won't upload my personal information with Airbnb simply because then my name, address, DL# and DOB is on one more server that I don't know with some presumedly sufficient level of security.  I understand the risks of having strangers enter the home:   I find that host reviews of prospective guests provide sufficient information for my comfort.  The risk of having my identity stolen online has become a greater concern for me, so I'm reducing my online presence.  As a result of this conflict, I'm staying in a Hampton Inn this weekend rather than an Airbnb.  

[Naida25]

I wholeheartedly agree.  Today for the first time, I tried to book an Air BnB.  I reluctantly complied with the requirement for my photo to be added to my account; then when it was time to book, it required a photo id such as a driver's license, passport - who I their right mind would provide such a photo; it is inviting id theft.  I will have to find another way or forget about Air BnB completely.  

[Prue0]

I like photo id but do not insist on it... my pet dislike is cartoon character ids, or pet cats or cute puppies. If you have uploaded a profile picture  it should be of your face!

[Ariel10]

You can ask for a photo in your house rules.