Airbnb prohibits indoor security cameras in rentals

The platform aims to “simplify” its security policy and prioritize privacy by implementing the change by the end of next month

Airbnb announced on Monday its global ban on indoor security cameras in rentals, effective by the end of next month. The San Francisco-based platform aims to “simplify” its security-camera policy and prioritize privacy.

Juniper Downs, Airbnb’s head of community policy and partnerships, stated in a prepared 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.”

Previously, Airbnb permitted indoor security cameras in common areas like hallways and living rooms, as long as their locations were disclosed on the listings page. Under the new policy, hosts can still use doorbell cameras and noise-decibel monitors in common spaces, provided they disclose the devices’ location and presence. The policy also prohibits hosts from using outdoor cameras to surveil indoor spaces.

Some Airbnb guests have discovered hidden cameras in their rentals. Downs anticipates that the policy change will impact only a few hosts since the majority of Airbnb listings do not have indoor security cameras. Hosts found violating the new policy risk losing their Airbnb account.

In its fourth-quarter earnings report released last month, Airbnb noted an increase in bookings and revenue, indicating strong demand for its services.