Airbnb Prohibits Use of Surveillance Cameras Within Rental Properties
The company’s policy changes are set to take effect by the end of the upcoming month. According to the online rental platform, the adjustment is aimed at simplifying regulations concerning security cameras and prioritizing guest privacy.
Previously, Airbnb users had expressed concerns regarding the presence of indoor surveillance cameras. Juniper Downs, Airbnb’s Head of Community Policy and Partnerships, stated in a release, “These adjustments were crafted in collaboration with our guests, hosts, and privacy experts. We remain committed to gathering feedback to ensure our policies align with the needs of our global community.”
Downs further noted, “Given that the majority of Airbnb listings do not include security cameras, this update is anticipated to affect only a smaller fraction of properties on the platform.”
Under Airbnb’s current guidelines, the use of security cameras is permitted in common areas such as living rooms and hallways, provided that their presence is transparently disclosed in the property’s listing.
The updated policy now prohibits the installation of outdoor cameras directed towards indoor spaces within properties. Additionally, Airbnb strictly prohibits the placement of surveillance cameras in private areas such as bedrooms and bathrooms.
However, the new regulations still permit the use of doorbell cameras and noise monitors in shared spaces, albeit with the requirement of disclosing their presence on the property’s listing page.
Airbnb emphasizes its commitment to striking a balance between hosts’ security concerns, including the prevention of unauthorized gatherings, and the paramount importance of guest privacy.
This announcement follows closely on the heels of a recent episode of the US comedy show Saturday Night Live, which aired a parody Airbnb advertisement featuring a humorous reference to a camera hidden in a toilet. The sketch has garnered over 1.2 million views on YouTube.
