The Italian government has banned the practice of key boxes in holiday rental accommodation, which means that guests now have to meet in person to book an apartment during their stay. Banning the “self-checking system” is expected to address public order and safety risks.

This measure originates from the key lock boxes protest that residents of Rome, Milan and Florence initiated earlier this year, which was prompted by a rising housing price prompted by this phenomenon, as informed by a news report in Schengen.News.

Guests now have to meet up with individuals who rent their houses or apartments and also will have to present the necessary documents. Within 24 hours of check-in, renters will have to send the required information about guests to the police authorities.

The Italian Interior minister has pointed out that this measure is expected to help with national security, which has been an increasingly difficult task in the last two years in light of ongoing wars, conflicts and terrorist attacks.

The authorities also noted that the ban follows the popularity of the “phenomenon of short-term rentals”, prompted by political, religious and cultural events in the country. The measure was signed on November 18 and entered into force at the same time concerning tourist accommodation such as Booking and Airbnb apartments and houses.