Airbnb Imposes Ban On Security Cameras Inside Guest Homes

Airbnb's revised policy will come into effect on april 30.

Homestay and experience major Airbnb has announced that it will introduce a ban on the use of security cameras within guest accommodations to uphold privacy standards, the company has announced. Previously, the platform permitted the installation of indoor security cameras in communal spaces like hallways and living rooms, provided they were prominently displayed and disclosed in property listings before booking. However, Airbnb users have voiced grievances on social media regarding the discovery of apparently hidden cameras within Airbnb accommodations, with some of these devices being found in areas where privacy is typically assumed.

In a bid to give hosts sufficient time to adjust to the new updates, Airbnb's revised policy will come into effect on april 30. Following this date, any reported violations of the policy will be thoroughly investigated, and potential actions may include the removal of listings or suspension of accounts, the company has noted.

"Airbnb is banning the use of indoor security cameras in listings globally as part of efforts to simplify our policy on security cameras and other devices and to continue to prioritize the privacy of our community," the company wrote in a blog post. In addition to prohibiting indoor cameras, Airbnb's revised policy will introduce more extensive regulations regarding the usage of outdoor security cameras and other devices, such as noise decibel monitors.

"Devices like doorbell cameras and noise decibel monitors continue to be permitted on Airbnb and can be an effective, privacy-protective way for Hosts to monitor security for their home and get ahead of issues like unauthorized parties. However, Hosts will be required to disclose the presence and general location of any outdoor cameras before guests book.

"These cameras will also be prohibited from monitoring indoor spaces of a listing and are not allowed in certain outdoor areas where there’s a greater expectation of privacy, like an enclosed outdoor shower or sauna. Hosts are also required to disclose the presence of noise decibel monitors, which assess decibel level only and do not record or transmit sounds or conversations and are only allowed in common spaces of listings," the company added.