^^^ I have met hundreds, probably over a thousand couchsurfers. I have hosted, and surfed about 80 nights in 9 countries. I have never had a problem, always a great experience. If somebody has a solid profile with good references it is usually ok. There are some freeloaders but I think they stand out, besides, you are under no obligation to host somebody or allow them in your home if they appear homeless, on drugs, or you just have a bad vibe etc. It is the surfers responsibility to have a back up plan whether it be camping or staying in a hostel etc.