In this photo illustration, the Airbnb logo is displayed on an unidentified smartphone in the United Kingdom on January 26, 2024.
John Keeble | Good pictures
Airbnb has announced that it will ban the use of indoor security cameras at any property listed on its site and introduce new restrictions on outdoor cameras and noise monitoring devices.
Cameras were previously allowed in areas such as hallways and living areas as long as they were disclosed by the property owner. Airbnb has cameras clearly visible and not in sleeping areas or bathrooms.
It is said Monday The changes, which will take effect on April 30, will simplify its policy regarding tracking devices and Airbnb will continue to prioritize users' privacy.
Property managers must disclose the presence and general location of any exterior cameras, provided that the cameras do not monitor interior spaces and are not located anywhere with a “high expectation of privacy,” such as showers and saunas.
Airbnb acknowledged that noise monitors were used by some property owners to “prevent problems such as unauthorized parties”, but said these should be disclosed to guests. They should only measure decibel levels, not record or transmit sounds.
Violations of the new policy will be investigated and penalties may include removal of a listing or user's account, Airbnb said.
“These changes follow extensive consultation with guests, hosts, privacy experts and advocacy groups,” Airbnb said. Report.
Although the company says most of the properties listed on its site do not have a security camera, the changes in recent years come amid growing concern about the potential for cheap and widely available hidden cameras in public spaces.
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