The platform stated that this change will be implemented by the end of the following month, aiming to ‘simplify’ its security policy while giving priority to privacy
Airbnb announced on Monday that it will prohibit the use of indoor security cameras in rentals worldwide by the end of the upcoming month. The San Francisco-based online rental platform stated that it aims to “simplify” its policy on security cameras while giving priority to privacy. This change will be implemented on April 30th.
“These changes were implemented in consultation with our guests, hosts, and privacy experts, and we will continue to seek feedback to ensure that our policies are effective for our global community,” said Juniper Downs, Airbnb’s head of community policy and partnerships, in a prepared statement.
Previously, Airbnb permitted the use of indoor security cameras in common areas such as hallways and living rooms, provided that the camera locations were disclosed on the listing page. Under the new policy, hosts can still use doorbell cameras and noise-decibel monitors, but only in common spaces, and must disclose the location and presence of these devices. The policy also prohibits hosts from using outdoor cameras to monitor indoor spaces.
Airbnb guests have reported discovering hidden cameras in their rentals. Downs stated that she anticipates the policy update will affect only a small percentage of hosts, as the majority of Airbnb listings do not mention having indoor security cameras. Hosts found to be violating the new policy on indoor cameras could lose their Airbnb account.
In its fourth-quarter earnings report last month, Airbnb announced an increase in bookings and revenue, noting that demand remains high.
