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Airbnb stated that hosts are no longer allowed to use surveillance devices inside their rented spaces.
The company stated that their announcement on Monday aimed to “simplify” their policies. This comes after the company had previously permitted cameras in shared spaces such as kitchens, hallways, and living rooms.
Now, owners will have to remove them and make sure they are complying with updated rules on cameras and noise detectors on the outside of their property.
According to a blog post by Airbnb, the revised policy states that security cameras are prohibited inside listings, regardless of their location, purpose, or prior disclosure. This update aims to simplify the company’s approach towards the use of security cameras.
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This decision follows multiple reports of Airbnb guests discovering concealed cameras at their accommodations, such as a case in Wales where a man found a webcam hidden in the cushions of a sofa last year.
In the past, hosts were allowed to have cameras in shared spaces as long as they disclosed it in their listing.
According to the company, since the majority of listings do not currently include this statement, only a small portion on the platform will be impacted.
According to a blog post by Juniper Downs, Airbnb’s Head of Community Policy and Partnerships, our aim was to establish transparent guidelines that give our community a better understanding of what they can anticipate from Airbnb.
“We collaborated with our guests, hosts, and privacy experts to make these revisions and we will continue to gather feedback to ensure our policies benefit our worldwide community.”
According to the latest rules, hosts are still allowed to have doorbell cameras and decibel monitors, as well as outdoor security cameras, as long as they are clearly listed. Airbnb stated that these tools can pre-empt any possible problems, such as unauthorized parties.
The use of cameras to capture the interior of the property and areas where guests would expect privacy, like an outdoor shower or hot tub, is strictly prohibited.
Since 2022, the organization known as Surveillance Technology Oversight Project (S.T.O.P.) has been advocating for this alteration.
Albert Fox Cahn, the executive director of S.T.O.P. stated in a press release that individuals should not have to be concerned about being recorded in a rental property, whether it be in the bedroom, living room, or hallway. Removing these cameras is a definite victory for both privacy and safety, as these devices are susceptible to misuse.
It is unsettling and a significant breach when individuals discover that they are under surveillance in their own homes. This victory is a major success for those who have advocated for the rights of renters to not be constantly monitored. We appreciate Airbnb’s willingness to listen and make the necessary adjustments.
The company has stated that the changes will go into effect on April 1st, giving hosts sufficient time to adhere to them.
Source: independent.co.uk
