Has ID, Still No Idea, Part 5

Customer: “I’d like to pick up my computer. I got an email saying the repair is complete.”

Me: “All right! Have a seat right here and I’ll get you checked in. Do you have your ID with you?”

Customer: “Why would I need to show you that?”

Me: “To make sure we’re giving the computer back to the right customer.”

Customer: “I don’t see why that’s necessary.”

Me: “Well, what if someone came in and said they were picking up a computer and used your name? If we didn’t check ID, we’d have to just trust their word and hand over any computer they have the name of. That’s really not secure, so we always ask to verify our customers’ IDs when they pick up machines worth thousands of dollars.”

Customer: “No, it’s ridiculous. I never had to show my ID before. This is a police state.” 

She hands me her ID.

Me: “Umm… I’m gonna grab your computer and I’ll be right back.”

I get back and hand it to her.

Customer: “This is absurd. I still can’t believe you needed my ID.”

Me: “I’m sorry; if you still don’t understand why I needed to verify that you were the correct customer before I handed over your computer by checking your ID, I’m afraid there’s no amount of explaining that will convince you it’s the right thing to do.”

Customer: “It never used to be like this. You don’t even know what freedom is.”

Me: “Oh?”

Customer: “It’s been this way ever since 9/11.”

Related:
Has ID, Still No Idea, Part 4
Has ID, Still No Idea, Part 3
Has ID, Still No Idea, Part 2
Has ID, Still No Idea