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Best way to verify guest identity?

Rich S
Jul 13, 2019 1:46 PM
Joined Dec, 2018 301 posts

I'm looking for a way to verify a guest's identity that doesn't require me to physically (or electronically) maintain a copy of their credit card or driver's license.

I'm uncomfortable maintaining such guest personal infomation because of potential ramifications should that data be compromised. In the state of Colorado where my units are located, there is legislation addressing this (see link below) which requires me to create and adhere to a data privacy policy. As an an individual that's burdensome and a risk I don't want.

I found that Docusign has an identity product that matches up with their e-sign product. I'm not a fan of Docusign ($$$) but it could be a solution, perhaps something that could be included with OR's e-sign process.

Alternatively I could require a credit card authorization through a processing company (eg: Lynnbrook) for both direct and VRBO guests which would allow me to charge damages that exceed my allowance.

Ultimately my problem is this - I'm relying upon my signed rental agreement to help in an unlikely/extreme situation, but if the agreement were fraudulently signed by a person other than the guest I might be out of luck trying to pursue legal recourse.

So two questions ....

1) Is there some other approach I haven't thought of?
2) Could OR add this kind of identity verification in some manner?

(2018 CO legislation)
https://www.lrrc.com/colorado-makes-sweeping-changes-to-protect-consumer-data-privacy


Paul W
Jul 16, 2019 5:20 PM
OR Team Member Joined Jun, 2009 825 posts

We don't have the identify side yet, but you can certainly ask the guest for a card on file which is encrypted and stored in a way that you can't get human-readable access to. We are fully PCI compliant for storing and managing cards. As long as your House Rules on the channel tell the guest that you are going to do - ask for a card on file and place a hold before arrival - it should be fine. Many others do that.