Airbnb prohibits usage of internal security cameras over privacy concerns

Due to privacy concerns, Airbnb has prohibited the usage of internal security cameras at any of its properties globally.  

The platform for short-term rentals announced on Monday that it had decided to "prioritize the privacy of our community" and streamline its security camera policy. 

Up until today, security cameras were permitted in public spaces like living rooms according to Airbnb, a San Francisco-based company, as long as they were mentioned in listings and were easily visible.  

Juniper Downs, head of community policy and partnerships at Airbnb, said in a statement, "These changes were made in consultation with our guests, hosts, and privacy experts, and we'll continue to seek feedback to help ensure our policies work for our global community."  

The move comes after years of occasional reports of Airbnb users discovering hidden cameras in their lodgings. 

Airbnb said it expected the change to affect only a “smaller subset of listings” as a majority of properties did not report having a security camera. 

Airbnb said hosts will still be allowed to install doorbell cameras and noise decibel monitors to address issues such as unauthorised parties. 

But hosts will be required to disclose the presence and general location of outdoor cameras before accepting bookings, according to the company. 

Outdoor cameras also must not be used to monitor indoor spaces or installed in outdoor spaces where there is a greater expectation of privacy, such as shower areas. 

The rental platform said the revised policy will take effect from April 30 to give hosts time to comply with the new rules.