Your Airbnb Host Might Be Watching. Here’s What the Rules Actually Say.
You finally booked that beachfront escape or the snug cabin in the woods, ready to kick off your shoes and relax. But that home-away-from-home feeling can evaporate fast if you suspect someone’s watching you through a hidden lens.
Smart home gadgets are everywhere now, from video doorbells to Wi-Fi thermostats. While confirmed cases of travelers finding secret cameras are rare, the rules around surveillance in vacation rentals can be confusing. Here’s a clear breakdown of what the major booking platforms allow.
Airbnb banned all indoor security cameras in April 2024. Outdoor cameras are permitted, but only if they’re not pointed at private areas like an outdoor shower or sauna. Hosts must disclose the exact location of every exterior camera in the listing—so you’ll see it listed under “amenities.” Noise decibel monitors are allowed inside, but they can’t record audio. Smart plugs and thermostats don’t need to be disclosed, though hosts may let you unplug them.
Booking.com also banned indoor cameras and any outdoor surveillance in private spaces starting April 2024. External security cameras and video doorbells are allowed, as long as they’re clearly listed in the property’s Safety & Security section before you book. The company says it investigates every complaint and can kick hosts off the platform for violations.
Vrbo has prohibited indoor cameras since at least 2023. Outdoor devices are allowed only if they face an entry point, not a window or private area. Hosts must disclose the camera’s location and coverage area—a photo alone isn’t enough. If a camera covers a pool or hot tub, a sign must be posted on site, like in a welcome binder.
What if you find a hidden camera? All three platforms urge you to contact their 24/7 customer service teams immediately. They’ll investigate, and if a host violated the rules, they may refund your stay or remove the host from the platform. In an emergency, call local law enforcement first—the platforms will cooperate with any investigation.
Bottom line: Trust your gut. If something feels off, report it. The rules are on your side.