Private investigator shares exactly where to look for hidden cameras in Airbnbs

03 February 2024 , 12:30

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Hidden cameras are a growing concern for holidaymakers (Stock photo) (Image: Getty Images)

Smile, you're on camera!

There are certain places you expect to see CCTV, but checking into a hotel or Airbnb is certainly not one of them. Yet in recent years, there have been a growing number of people who have discovered hidden cameras in their holiday rentals - sparking safety and privacy concerns. One Airbnb host even admitted to "using hidden cameras to film guests and swapped sex videos with other users".

When you go on holiday, you want to be able to relax and chill out - not find a webcam hidden in the sofa like this man did. But how exactly do you discover whether you're being watched - and what should you do if you come across a secret cam?

Aaron Bond is a private investigator at BondRees - that dives into anything from finding long-lost relatives to finding out if your spouse is being unfaithful. He warns that hidden cameras can commonly be found in spots such as public toilets and changing rooms.

"Cameras in public places are used to catch you in compromising positions, so often they are positioned either high or low to get the best viewing angle," he told Huffington Post. "If something seems out of place, simply leave the area and report the object to the authorities."

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But when it comes to an Airbnb or hotel - Bond recommends inspecting your alarm clocks, lamps, mirrors, air filters, TVs, and innocent-looking books on display, as all of these could contain small cameras. Be wary of objects that appear to be placed out of their 'natural position' as well as any 'small holes in objects or walls'.

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If you suspect you've come across a hidden device, you can use your phone for confirmation by placing it near the object to see if causes your mobile to buzz. Bond added: "You can [also] use the flashlight on your camera in a dimly lit room to detect the glass on the camera lens."

Airbnb says that it enforces "strict policies governing the use of any kind of recording device in listings", with hosts required to disclose the presence of any monitoring device in public or common spaces in the listing description. Hosts who do not disclose information about the devices risk being kicked off Airbnb.

Have you ever spotted a hidden camera in your holiday rental? Email [email protected]

Liam Gilliver