Hi,

I'm a newbie considering using a provider for the first time.  After looking at the websites of well-reviewed providers in a big city near my home, I was surprised to realize that all expect to see some identification.  Some even ask for business cards and pay stubs to prove identity.  While I understand the concern of providers and their need to know that I'm not a cop, I'm not all that crazy about having my name, address, etc. known by providers and their agencies.  There seems to be some risk of extortion.  Surely this is something all hobbyist have had to come to terms with.  Any troubles in this regard?  Am I just being a nervous Nellie?

JL

If you see someone with no reviews, you are obviously on your own.  But there is safety in staying with the pack and not wandering off on your own.

My .02

PS there is a newbie board for this stuff.  That is probably why no one answered you todate.

Hi and welcome:

I understand your concerns. This is an issue that has received a considerable amount of attention lately, and has also garnered more than a few opinions regarding how to respond to it.

In my opinion, shared by some and not by others, 99.9% of the providers out there ask for the amount of personal information that they do, for one reason, and one reason only. They require it out of regard for their own safety, both from LE, and from those psychotic bastards out there that get their rocks off trying to physically hurt people.

You need to look at it from the providers point of view, and understand that a provider is operating a business. Every other business under the sun can, and will, reserve the right to refuse service to anyone for any reason. Businesses in general do this to protect their best interests, and providers do the same. Personal safety reasons aside(although that in of itself is enough), I have to believe that providers ask the for the info that they do for the same reasons that any other established business dealing in big ticket goods, and services would. They ask for this information to get a sense of whether or not you are the type of individual that they want to do business with. For example, if and when the day comes and this nation wakes up and legalizes this harmless activity, I would not be surprised if many , if not all providers begin demanding a  credit check with experian, or equifax, etc, just to see what type of person you are.

So in a nutshell, imho this is the way it is, get used to it. As I indicated above, this issue has come up before, and when it has providers responding have always maintained that after verification, this info is destroyed.

Is the potential for extortion present? I suppose, but then you, or I could get hit by a Bus while crossing the street as well.

The only suggestion I can give  you is to look a little harder and find a few reputable providers that aren't as stringent(although these tend to be fewer and fewer).

I wouldn't worry about extortion, and in the final anlaysis, it's their ball, their bat, and their glove, so it's their rules (no pun intended)take it or leave it. Relax do what you came here to do, and have fun!

"egbok" everything's gonna be ok.

-- Modified on 8/21/2003 1:59:45 AM

If you go with a well reviewed provider you have little or nothing to worry about. After some experience out there you can try some roads less traveled.  

     Have Fun!

SOLUTION # 1
make up a name
keep asking around till you find one or two girls who dont ask for ID- there are lots out there.
Catch one whos visiting,  slow business day, whatever.  Dont look for your perfect girl, just someone you think is OK. Girls mostly like longer appointments, easier/less dangerous. Try to tempt her with a dinner date.
Be very nice to her.
Do/ give  something she will remember nicely, thats a little unusual - handmade/special to her/hobbies/interests,  whatever, just so she will remember you fondly for the next few months.
Then use her as a reference for the next girl. Mention your special gift, so the girl can ID you.
repeat this until you have a few good references, and you can get almost anyone to see you.
Stay away from those who insist on a home/work number, doesnt matter how nice/cute they may be, its not worth the risk.
SOLUTION # 2
Some girls will meet for a drink, schedule a visit a different day if they were OK with you.