Airbnb has made the decision to ban the use of indoor security cameras to “prioritize the privacy of our community,” according to a statement from the company on Monday.
The ban, which is a global one across all of their listings, is an effort to “simplify our policy on security cameras and other devices,” according to a statement released by the company announcing the new change in policy.
Airbnb had allowed indoor security cameras in common areas like hallways and living rooms, but they were only allowed if they were disclosed on the property listing page before booking and if the cameras were clearly visible and not located in spaces like sleeping areas and bathrooms.
This new policy changes that and prohibits indoor cameras altogether.
“The update to this policy simplifies our approach and makes clear that security cameras are not allowed inside listings, regardless of their location, purpose or prior disclosure,” said Airbnb. “As the majority of listings on Airbnb do not report having a security camera, this update is expected to impact a smaller subset of listings on the platform.”
The policy also implements more rigorous and comprehensive rules on the use of outdoor security cameras and other devices, including noise decibel monitors, the company said.
