Airbnb Says It Is Finally Banning The Use Of Indoor Cameras At All Of Its Properties

In news that many feel is long overdue, Airbnb announced it has finally banned the use of indoor cameras in all of its properties worldwide, effective April 30.

The announcement came on Monday in a statement on the company’s website.

“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 statement reads.

“Historically, Airbnb allowed the use of indoor security cameras in common areas of listings, such as hallways and living rooms, as long as they were disclosed on the listing page before booking, clearly visible and were not located in spaces like sleeping areas and bathrooms. The update to this policy simplifies our approach and makes clear that security cameras are not allowed inside listings, regardless of their location, purpose or prior disclosure.”

Airbnb is also enacting new rules on the use of outdoor security cameras and devices like noise decibel monitors.

While these devices will continue to be permitted, hosts will now have to “disclose the presence and general location of any outdoor cameras” as well as the presence of noise decibel monitors.

Outdoor cameras will also not be allowed to monitor indoor spaces or areas outdoors where there is “a greater expectation of privacy.”

Reactions to this news on social media was mostly positive, but there were still some detractors and doubters about how such a policy can be enforced. Others just wondered why it took so long for such a policy to be enacted.

“I think it’s a great move by Airbnb to ban indoor security cameras,” one comment read. “Privacy is super important, and guests should feel comfortable and safe during their stay. It’s good to see companies taking steps to protect people’s privacy.”

“Hidden cameras will remain, genuine hosts (like me) who have cameras for security, that guests are told to unplug at checkin and plug back in at checkout will simply leave the platform,” read another comment. “Airbnb about to find out they ain’t the only game in town.”

“Who will police it?” someone else asked.

“Here’s a better way to read this headline — Airbnb has rented out vacation homes for 15 years without any restrictions to indoor security cameras,” another person commented.