A Confirmed Guest Who Doesn't Have a Real Photo of Themselves

[Scott219]

I just had a confirmation for a guest who supposedly has a selfie, but actually just uploaded a cartoon. This guest supposedly also uploaded a government-issued ID, but I can't confirm this, and also they just joined and don't have any reviews or references. This person also did not tell me anything about who they are or their plans, and they asked me if they could have a package sent to them at my home.

I don't want to lose this reservation, and they may be completely fine. But I feel uncomfortable not knowing anything about them and them cleverly getting around the requirement for uploading a real photo and possibly even their ID, and not telling me anything about themselves or their travel plans.

How should I approach this? Should I contact airbnb support about it?

[Lawrene0]

@Scott219

The selfie: That goes to Airbnb and not to the host. The cartoon is the profile pic the guest chose. You can ask the guest to upload a clear photo. Some hosts do. I do not. The government-issued ID is not confirmed by you - it is "confirmed" (there are various views on how well...) by Airbnb. 

They just joined: Everyone has to start somewhere. I was new once. You were too.

Nothing about plans: This is where it gets worrisome. If you have asked them to tell you a little about themselves and their plans, and they are refusing to answer, that can be a flag. I have such a non-answerer coming tomorrow, and am a bit worried, but not enough to ask that the booking be cancelled.

Delivering a package: YIKES! No to this. Just say no. 

Hope this helps a little. You are not wrong to be worried. Say no to the package delivery and see what they say before you contact Airbnb is my advice. Will you let us know how it goes?

[Todd-and-Reese0]

I would also say no to the package delivery under insurance or liability. My postal workers are disorganized so I couldn't guarantee it would arrive on time or to the right address or wouldn't be just left on the porch to get stolen. It's also dubious sounding in general. Big nope for me.

Is it a shared home or do you live nearby? Tell them you need to greet them to let them in or have someone else do this for you. Once you get a sense of the person it might help to put you at ease or decide to rehome them.

[Nancy67]

I personally don't rent to cartoon characters. My expertise dictates anything can happen-- plus the accompanying 24/7 soundtrack  is annoying. As a matter of fact, I also discriminate against pets, flowers, birthday cakes, beings from outer space, real or imagined., Super Heros, "Cousin It" and disembodied feet. Just sayin. 

[David126]

Not an issue for me but I know others who post on here would not wish to Host.

Not sure what calling ABB would achieve apart from a lengthy wait on the phone.

[Scott219]

Calling airbnb got them to double check and confirm that the guest's ID was authentic. I messaged them back asking for a little info on who they are and their plans.

The advice on whether to accept the package is appreciated.

[Kate157]

Hi @Scott219, occasionally a guest has asked me if an Amazon package could be delivered to my address. There has never been any problem with this, so I am happy to oblige. The guest appreciates it, and it's no skin off my back. I also have accepted guests without clear photos. I've had very good guest experiences, and that includes lots of newbies. I have a lot of faith that my guests will continue to be nice people. Having said that, we limit our guests to 2 at a time because bigger groups cause more issues and problems. Also, we are on the premises on the level above the guest space, so our presence does act as a deterrent for bad behavior, I believe.