Hidden Cameras in Airbnbs: Rights & Options

Today’s video will focus on a growing concern recently reported in the mainstream media: hidden cameras in Airbnb rentals.

This violation not only breaches personal privacy but also the essential trust needed between Airbnb hosts and guests.

The recent report by CNN has uncovered that guests across various locations have found hidden cameras in bathrooms, bedrooms, and other private areas. These hidden cameras are often disguised in objects like smoke detectors, alarm clocks, and even bathroom fixtures.

According to a court order mandating the disclosure of this information: Airbnb received at least 35,000 customer support tickets about surveillance devices since 2013.

Such discoveries have led to public outcry and legal scrutiny. Airbnb updated their security devices policy in April 2024 banning “security cameras and recording devices that monitor any part of a listing’s interior” but cases of hidden airbnb cameras continue to be a problem as policies and laws generally aren’t followed by those who want to cause harm.

While detecting a hidden camera can be difficult, there are ways you can scan the rental property for devices. You can start by turning off the lights and using a flashlight to look for reflections that might indicate a lens of a recording device.

You can also check the Wi-Fi using a Wi-Fi scanner app to see which devices are connected to the Wi-Fi. While there are also hardware devices that state they can help in identifying hidden cameras, many are a scam – but their growth in popularity shows the deep fear individuals have of this growing problem.

If you ever find yourself in a situation where you discover a hidden camera in your rental, it’s important to act immediately. First, document the scene with photos or video using your phone. Do not touch or remove the camera.

Next, report the incident to local law enforcement to ensure a proper investigation is conducted. It’s also crucial to contact Airbnb’s customer service to report the violation and initiate their complaint process.

Airbnb has an emergency number you should reach out to – and you should report to them and request a safe place to stay. We do not recommend contacting the property owner but do recommend leaving the property as soon as possible to help ensure your safety.

Guests who find a hidden camera in a rental property in an intimate area like the bathroom or bedroom may also be able to file a civil lawsuit against the perpetrator and Airbnb for the invasion of privacy and negligence in vetting their hosts.

Such actions can lead to compensation for any harm suffered and help ensure such breaches of privacy are taken seriously and prevented in the future.

Helping Survivors can put you in touch with an attorney experienced in Airbnb hidden camera lawsuits so you can understand your rights and options. For more information, please reach out to us today.