Travelers and short-term rentals using lockboxes in Italy will have to find new ways to check in following a new nationwide ban.
The new security enhancements require hosts to directly identify guests rather than remote authentication as a result of the country's surge in tourism.
“At Airbnb, we take security very seriously and recognize the importance of complying with local regulations and ensuring the safety and security of everyone involved,” an Airbnb spokesperson told Fox in an email. told News Digital.
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“That’s why we are supporting cities’ efforts to strengthen in-person hospitality, cracking down on illegal key boxes in public spaces through education campaigns, and encouraging communities to prioritize welcoming guests in-person. ” the spokesperson continued.
Travelers heading to Italy will face new hurdles as the Italian government requires in-person check-ins to rent properties instead of the convenient remote check-in. (St. Petersburg)
Self-check-in is convenient for hosts and guests to coordinate and “manage arrivals in a flexible manner and adapt to unexpected changes in travel plans that occur from time to time,” the spokesperson said, adding that “self-check-in is convenient for hosts and guests around the world. and is being combined with our services,” he added. We also verify the identity of our guests and provide high security standards. ”
A lockbox or keybox is usually left on the door with a code so that guests can check in without having to face the host.
Currently, tourists must meet the host before entering a short-term rental property, following instructions from Italy's Interior Ministry.
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Italy's police chief Vittorio Pisani said: “The purpose of this investigation is to prevent risks to public order and safety in connection with the possible residence of dangerous persons or persons connected to criminal or terrorist organizations.'' There is a need to take strict measures.” Barons.
The use of lockboxes or keyboxes is currently not permitted as guests cannot check into the home without meeting the host in person to identify the correct party. (St. Petersburg)
Part of the timeliness of the self-check-in ban is due to a series of important events scheduled in the coming months. bring more tourists to Rome, including the Jubilee Year 2025, also known as the Jubilee Year of the Catholic Church.
This sacred event begins on December 24th with Pope Francis opening the Holy Doors of St. Peter's Basilica. Vatican.
According to Roma Capital's annual statistical report, 36 million tourists will visit Lazio, where Rome is located, in 2023.
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“The need has arisen to take strict measures aimed at preventing risks to public order and safety regarding the possible accommodation of dangerous persons and people associated with criminal or terrorist organizations.” the Ministry of Public Security said in a circular published online. via translation.
“To achieve this objective, the key issues related to the established procedures for the “remote identification” of guests in short-term accommodation by electronic transmission of copies of documents and access to short-term accommodation have been fully investigated. , it is considered appropriate to clarify. This is possible by using an automatic opening/closing PIN or by installing a key box at the entrance. ”
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Without formally identifying the guests, the Department of Public Safety is concerned that the procedures currently in place do not meet safety standards.
The new ban is a safety measure against the extreme tourism industry Italy has faced in recent months. (St. Petersburg)
Airbnb is working with the Italian government to come up with a solution that focuses on the safety of everyone involved.
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An Airbnb spokesperson said, “We remain committed to promoting responsible hosting and ensuring our platform continues to provide a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone, but we remain committed to meeting local safety concerns while meeting the needs of everyone. We look forward to working with the Italian government on solutions that will help address their concerns.” of our host and guest community. ”
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FOX News has contacted the Ministry of Public Security and Italy's Interior Ministry for comment.
Fox News Digital's Ashley DiMella contributed to this report.
