Airbnb has announced it will ban the use of indoor security cameras in all listings beginning in May.
Previously, Airbnb allowed hosts to have indoor security cameras in common areas — aka anywhere but bedrooms and bathrooms — as long as the devices were clearly disclosed on the listing page and placed in visible spots around the home. But the cameras have been an issue for many guests. People have reported encountering hidden cameras throughout the house that were never disclosed. On the flip side, hosts have argued that indoor cameras are necessary to stop large parties before they become too out of control.
Now, Airbnb is listening to guests’ complaints and requiring all hosts to remove indoor cameras by April 30. After that, any host who violates the new policy could be removed from the platform.
Outdoor cameras are still permitted, so that means anyone hoping to throw a massive party should still be on the lookout for some retaliation from hosts. But anyone who’s looking for a quiet getaway won’t have to worry about anyone watching them.
Of course, you can also just stay at a hotel which is cheaper, easier to access, safer and never had indoor cameras to begin with.
