Airbnb has tried to solve the issue of people being watched and having no privacy. For this reason, they made it a rule that every house that is rented through their site around the world should not contain indoor video cameras. Starting from the end of April 2024, this measure will help make surveillance policies clearer without compromising on community privacy.

Earlier on, Airbnb allowed homeowners to install cameras in some common areas, not including sleeping rooms or washrooms, only if visitors were informed about them. Nevertheless, the move to impose a total ban on inside cameras follows a wider attempt to give confidence and reduce travelers’ potential discomfort while under observation.

Travelers have told stories that show how worrying about being watched can spoil a holiday home. In one example, some vacationers realized that they were under constant observation from their Airbnb landlord, which led to fear and hence an immediate exit. Although hosts may claim that these precautions serve to enhance the security of their property, guests always see cameras as an invasion, which causes them uneasiness.

Bridget Shrivell, a Connecticut-based Airbnb host, supported the prohibition of indoor cameras in Airbnb due to privacy reasons and possible abuse. Shrivell, who is both an accommodation provider and traveler, stressed the need for data protection, especially among people who follow social media.

Although Airbnb has taken positive steps towards improving customer confidentiality, other holiday rental websites such as Vrbo and Booking. Com has different policies on spy equipment. It is recommended that travelers carefully read through property descriptions as well as platform rules to confirm if they fit in with their privacy concerns.

However, there are security personnel who argue that relying on such policies alone may not be enough because there could be some hidden cameras in rented apartments. The use of certain apparatus, in addition to physical checks like those mentioned above, can enable visitors ensure they do not compromise on their side privacy and safety while in the guesthouse.

Many property owners worry about their property being destroyed or stolen. Some of them think that they can prevent this by using surveillance. But experts say that such devices should not be used anyhow. Although it is only logical for someone to want to ensure that he or she has taken every measure possible towards protecting what could be a once in a lifetime investment, the experts have identified some risks that are connected with invading privacy.

However, careless installation of surveillance systems and neglecting guest privacy may violate individual rights and harm rental business. Besides, use of cameras everywhere might contradict privacy laws and expose homeowners to legal claims and sanctions from the authorities.

Surveillance equipment could spoil both reputation sides – of the property owner and the rental platform itself. An impression of too much control due to surveillance can result in negative feedback like distrust, which eventually causes fewer bookings.

Instead of relying on cameras alone, property owners should think about other ways they can protect their property and keep guests safe. For example tight security measures, investment into reliable lockers, communication, culture focused on fast problem-solving shall all serve this purpose better than anything else should.