Airbnb announced that it will ban the usage of security cameras indoors anywhere.
Up until recently, certain criteria have permitted the use of indoor cameras in living rooms. They couldn’t be in private areas; they had to be made apparent to guests.
Regardless of disclosure, the new policy forbids the use of indoor cameras in any capacity. It is not possible to position outdoor security cameras so they can see into the house. Additionally, with notice and limitations, noise monitors will be allowed. Decibel monitors for noise, for instance, are limited to measuring decibel levels, are not permitted to record conversations, and are only permitted in common areas of buildings.
According to Juniper Downs, head of community policy and partnerships at Airbnb, “our goal was to create new, clear rules that provide our community greater clarity about what to expect on Airbnb.” “We’ll keep asking for input to make sure our policies work for our worldwide community. These changes were made in conjunction with our guests, Hosts, and privacy experts.”
The majority of rentals do not disclose having security cameras, according to Airbnb, hence the change will only affect a “smaller subset of listings.”
Inside cameras are frequently viewed by visitors as an infringement on their privacy. They served as one line of defense for property owners and hosts against large gatherings and possible damage.
Hosts have until April 30 to comply. Those who don’t comply risk having their listings or accounts removed after an investigation.
The usage of security cameras indoors and in enclosed outdoor areas such as saunas and pools is prohibited by VRBO and Booking.com.
As per Airbnb, these modifications are a result of feedback from advocates, hosts, guests, and privacy specialists. In the past, CEO of Airbnb Brian Chesky has mentioned other adjustments the business is making in response to customer input.
The most important of these include requesting that hosts eliminate or lower cleaning costs, take steps to authenticate listings, and provide the complete cost of a stay—taxes excluded—up front.
Twenty percent of Airbnb’s active listings, or around 1.5 million, will soon be verified, the company announced last week.