Originally Posted by
peteropny
I think that it is a function of the laws of the country - for Thailand they ask to see your passport but don't copy it.
Also, it seems like a procedural thing that can differ between chains. Hyatt in the US rarely asks for ID but Starwood properties usually ask to see an ID (Driver's License).
Since this isn't really an issue exclusive to Hyatt, I'll move it over to Travel Buzz so that hopefully more people will give you comments.
peteropny - co-mod - Hyatt
It is often a function of law in some countries -- with such laws often applicable to foreign visitors but not to citizens/residents. But it is also a function independent of legal requirements; in other words it is being done by paranoid hotels and/or hotel employees even where not legally required, with the worst of the lot photocopying the ID even without permission and sometimes even in violation of law or as part of a planned violation of law
Hyatt is pretty good about not being so distrusting of customers as some of the other brands.