Airbnb is rolling out a blanket ban on indoor security cameras, which the company said is part of a broader effort to "prioritize the privacy of our community."
Airbnb has allowed the use of indoor security cameras in an accommodation's common areas, such as hallways and living rooms, as long as they were disclosed on the listing page before booking, clearly visible and not located in sleeping areas or bathrooms.
Airbnb's revised camera policy, which goes into effect April 30, now prohibits hosts from using cameras anywhere inside a rental, regardless of location, purpose or prior disclosure.
Outdoor security cameras continue to be permitted, so long as a host discloses the presence and general location of any outdoor cameras before a guest books. Outdoor cameras are prohibited from monitoring any indoor spaces and cannot be used in outdoor areas where there is a greater expectation of privacy, like an outdoor shower or sauna.
Hosts can continue to use noise decibel monitors, but these devices can only be used in common areas and must also be disclosed prior to booking. Airbnb defined noise decibel monitors as devices that measure decibel levels but do not record or transmit sounds or conversations.
Airbnb said that any violation of these rules could result in the removal of a listing or account.
Airbnb said it banned indoor cameras following "extensive consultation with guests, hosts, privacy experts and advocacy groups."