With social security numbers, addresses, names, and all of the other info supplied (I also don't ask for dates of birth), we are just asking for identity theft.  

Two identical properties and one collects 12% tax and the other does not?

The main thing I want to highlight, is that if you want to start and build your career in the RED business, you have to build your base of strategic knowledge and your identity in the RED business.

As others have stated, liability protection is the main benefit of an LLC, but you can also create an LLC structure for identity protection.

The other building, which is located directly across the street and essentially identical in almost every way has two tenants who we have spoken to 1 time since we have owned it.

@Michelle L Irastorza I’ve not moved any of my STRs over the 30+ days because here in the northeast that puts seasonal stays in the same risk bucket as long term renters and I’m on those long term rentals I am absolutely collecting 1-2 months deposit, full identity check, background check, and a call with at least two former landlords who’s address and lease term are verified before handing over any keys. 3-6 month evictions on long term rentals where tenants pay utilities and leave their junk for you to pickup after they leave are one thing. 3-6 month evictions on seasonal/30+ day rentals where you’re paying utilities and having your furnishings destroyed after they leave are an entire other level of headache. 

Fugitive, Arrested in Heartstopper; Pacemaker Revealed His Identity, Says Report - CBS News

The houses are almost identical. 

Usage is identical, it provides housing to a tenant.

Unfortunately, the one thing that wasn't fabricated was our address.Clearly these villains are attempting to use our hard work and diligence to scam potential renters into divulging all their personal info so they can engage in identity theft.