The Hidden Dangers of Sharing Your ID Copy

Many travelers are heading abroad every year, often staying in hotels and renting scooters or bicycles. In such cases, rental companies frequently ask for a copy of your ID. But before you comply, be aware of the risks.

Copying Your ID: A Legal and Security Concern

We’ve covered this topic before: making copies of your identification documents is not allowed in many locations.

Data protection authorities have made it clear—sharing an ID copy can expose you to identity theft.

When you leave a copy in someone else’s hands, you lose control over how your sensitive information is handled.

Despite the risks, refusing to provide a copy may result in being denied service. Hotels, rental agencies, and tour operators often insist on ID verification, leaving travelers with few alternatives.

A Smarter Way to Protect Yourself

While copying your ID isn’t advisable, there are ways to minimize the risks if you have no other choice. Data protection authorities suggest the following precautions:

• Write a note across the copy stating its purpose, such as: "Copy for [rental company] – [date]"
• Keep critical information legible while marking unnecessary details.
• Never share more data than required—blur or redact sensitive elements if possible.
• By taking these steps, you reduce the chances of your ID being misused while still complying with rental requirements. Stay vigilant, and always protect your personal data.