Are Hidden Cameras in Airbnb Legal? Know Your Privacy Rights

Imagine you arrive at your Airbnb after a long trip, drop your bags, and start to unwind when you spot something strange. It looks like a smoke detector or a digital clock, but something feels off. You take a closer look and realize it’s a hidden camera.

That moment can feel unsettling, even terrifying. You booked a private place to relax, not to be watched. So what now? Is it legal for a host to install hidden cameras? What can you do if you find one? And what are your rights, especially when you’re staying in someone else’s home?

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from your legal rights to the steps you should take if this ever happens to you.

Are Hidden Cameras in Airbnbs Legal?

The short answer is that it depends heavily on where you are, but in most cases, hidden cameras in private areas are not legal. The law generally protects your right to privacy, especially in places where you would reasonably expect it. That includes bedrooms and bathrooms, even if you are staying in someone else's home.

Globally, most jurisdictions follow a few common principles when it comes to surveillance in short-term rentals:

• Hosts must disclose the presence of any cameras on the property. This usually means listing them clearly in the Airbnb description and pointing them out before check-in.

• Cameras are never allowed in private areas like bedrooms or bathrooms, even if they are disclosed.

• Recording guests without their knowledge or consent in private areas can lead to serious legal consequences, including criminal charges.

In Ontario, this is backed by the Criminal Code of Canada, which makes it illegal to secretly observe or record someone in a place where they have a reasonable expectation of privacy. This is considered voyeurism and can result in charges that carry jail time and a criminal record.

It’s important to note that even if a camera is placed in a “common area” like a living room or kitchen, it still needs to be disclosed. Failure to do so may be considered a breach of both the law and Airbnb’s own policies.

What to Do If You Find a Hidden Camera

If you find a hidden camera in your Airbnb, do not panic. Take calm and deliberate steps to protect yourself and gather the information you need.

1. Do not touch the camera
   Avoid removing or damaging the device. It might be important evidence later. Tampering with it could complicate any legal or formal action you decide to take.

2. Take photos and videos
   Document everything. Photograph the camera itself and its location in the room. Take wide shots that show where it is positioned in relation to beds, bathrooms, or showers. These images could be crucial if you decide to report the incident.

3. Check for other devices
   Cameras can be hidden in clocks, smoke detectors, picture frames, wall plugs, and even air purifiers. If you found one, there could be more. Use your phone’s flashlight to look for reflections from camera lenses. You can also scan for unusual WiFi or Bluetooth devices using your phone.

4. Secure your privacy
   If you feel unsafe, leave immediately and find another place to stay. If you must remain temporarily, block or cover the camera lens with clothing, towels, or tape. Turn off the lights and use a flashlight to spot any hidden lenses. Trust your instincts.

5. Report it to Airbnb
   Open the app and report the camera through the Resolution Center or through any other available channel.

6. File a police report
   Especially if you are in Ontario or another jurisdiction where hidden surveillance is clearly illegal, contacting the police is an important step. Provide them with all evidence and details. This could lead to criminal charges against the host.

7. Know your rights if you’re in Ontario
   In Ontario, you are protected by both criminal law and privacy legislation. If someone records you without your knowledge in a private setting, they may be in violation of the Criminal Code and you may be able to pursue civil action for invasion of privacy or emotional distress.

What About Airbnb’s Responsibility?

Airbnb’s policies require hosts to disclose all surveillance devices on their property. If a host fails to do this, they can be permanently banned from the platform. Airbnb also states that devices are never allowed in sleeping areas or bathrooms, even if turned off or not recording.

If Airbnb determines that a host violated these rules, they usually provide refunds, help relocate guests, and investigate the host. In some cases, they may assist with law enforcement investigations.

However, Airbnb is not a law enforcement agency. If your privacy was violated, especially in a country like Canada, you should still report the incident to local police.

Preventing This from Happening Again

Here are a few simple things you can do to protect yourself in the future:

• Read reviews before booking. Look for any red flags from previous guests.

• Scan the property when you arrive. Pay attention to anything that looks unusual or out of place.

• Use apps to detect hidden cameras. Some apps scan for suspicious devices on WiFi networks or use your camera to spot hidden lenses.

• Cover suspicious items with towels or clothing if you’re unsure.

Finding a hidden camera in your Airbnb is a serious and deeply unsettling situation. But you are not powerless. Know that most privacy laws around the world are on your side. If you’re in Ontario, the law is very clear — you have the right not to be secretly recorded in a private setting, and the person responsible can face serious consequences.

Always take immediate steps to protect yourself, document the situation, and report it to both Airbnb and the police. By doing so, you’re not only standing up for your own rights but helping to make short-term rentals safer for everyone.

The bottom line is simple. When you rent a space to stay in, you deserve privacy. That’s not just good manners. In most places, it’s the law.