In a move aimed at safeguarding renters’ privacy, Airbnb has announced a significant policy change regarding the use of security cameras within its listings.
Effective April 30th, the popular vacation rental platform will prohibit hosts from utilizing indoor security cameras, regardless of their intended purpose or location.
This decision follows numerous reports from guests who encountered hidden cameras in their accommodations, prompting Airbnb to prioritize the privacy of its users.
Previously, hosts were permitted to install security cameras in designated “common areas,” such as hallways, living rooms, and front entrances. However, hosts were required to disclose the presence of these cameras in their property listings, ensure their visibility, and were strictly prohibited from placing cameras in private spaces like bedrooms and bathrooms.
The updated policy takes a more stringent stance by completely banning indoor security cameras.
In addition to the changes regarding indoor cameras, Airbnb’s revised policy introduces new guidelines for outdoor security cameras.
“Hosts must now disclose the use and placement of outdoor cameras prior to guests making a booking. Moreover, outdoor cameras are prohibited from capturing footage of indoor areas, and there are restrictions on their usage in areas with a reasonable expectation of privacy, such as outdoor showers or saunas,” the firm noted.
Furthermore, the updated policy mandates the disclosure of noise decibel monitors in property listings.
These monitors, previously employed by hosts to monitor potential disturbances or parties within their rentals, were banned by Airbnb in 2022.
Airbnb’s Head of Community Policy and Partnership, Juniper Downs, emphasized that these policy changes were informed by feedback from guests, hosts, and privacy experts: “The platform remains committed to seeking input to ensure its policies reflect the preferences of its global community.”
Hosts using Airbnb have until the end of April to remove indoor security cameras from their listings.
Any reports of indoor cameras discovered after this deadline will prompt Airbnb to conduct investigations, with potential consequences including the removal of the host’s listing or suspension of their account.
While acknowledging that the new policy cannot completely eradicate the presence of hidden cameras, Airbnb aims to reassure users that compliant hosts are no longer permitted to install cameras throughout their properties.