Table of Contents
- The Nightmare Discovery
- Airbnb’s Initial Response
- What Airbnb’s Policy Really Says
- Legal Implications of Hidden Cameras
- How to Protect Yourself as a Renter
- Sources
The Nightmare Discovery
Imagine you’re on a relaxing Memorial Day weekend getaway with your partner and friends—only to discover a hidden camera disguised as an outlet extender, blinking away above the toilet in your Airbnb bathroom.
That’s exactly what happened to Savannah, a Massachusetts resident, and her group during their $1,023 stay at a rental home in Alton, New Hampshire, near Lake Winnipesaukee. After spotting the flashing light, they immediately called the police, who confiscated the device as evidence and advised them to leave the property.
The couple expected Airbnb to act swiftly: remove the listing and issue a full refund. Instead, they got partial reimbursement—and silence.
Airbnb’s Initial Response
After submitting a photo of the camera, a matching product listing from Knowyournanny.com, and the police case number, Savannah heard back from Liviana, a member of Airbnb’s safety team. Days later, the verdict came: “Based on the information provided, we were not able to conclude that there was a violation of our policy.”
They received a refund for just one night—not the full amount—and the listing remained live on the platform for months, despite being booked through the summer and having past reviews mentioning children as guests.
What Airbnb’s Policy Really Says
Airbnb’s rules are crystal clear: “Security cameras inside homes are always prohibited—even if disclosed or turned off.” Bathrooms, bedrooms, and any private spaces are strictly off-limits for recording devices.
Yet enforcement appears inconsistent. In Savannah’s case, it took over three months—and media pressure from The New York Times—for Airbnb to finally issue a full refund and remove the listing.
An Airbnb spokesperson later confirmed the action, stating: “In the very rare event a potential violation… is reported to us, we take that seriously and take action, which can include removing hosts and listings.” However, they also noted that law enforcement had not contacted them directly during the investigation.
Legal Implications of Hidden Cameras
In New Hampshire, installing a camera in a “private place” like a bathroom is a misdemeanor—and becomes a felony if children are known to use the space. This raises serious questions about why the listing wasn’t suspended immediately upon report.
Here’s a quick legal snapshot:
| State | Hidden Camera in Bathroom | Punishment if Children Involved |
|---|---|---|
| New Hampshire | Misdemeanor | Felony |
| California | Felony | Enhanced felony + civil penalties |
| Texas | State jail felony | Up to 2 years in jail |
How to Protect Yourself as a Renter
While platforms like Airbnb have safety protocols, travelers should stay vigilant. Here’s how:
- Scan for odd devices: Look for unfamiliar plugs, smoke detectors, or decor that seems out of place.
- Cover or unplug suspicious outlets: If something looks like it doesn’t belong, don’t use it.
- Check reviews for red flags: Phrases like “weird blinking light” or “odd wiring” may hint at issues.
- Report immediately: Contact local police and the platform—don’t wait.
- Document everything: Take photos, save receipts, and note case numbers.
And remember: you’re entitled to privacy. No legitimate host needs a camera in your bathroom.
Bottom Line
Savannah’s story is a stark reminder that even trusted platforms can fall short in protecting guests. While Airbnb eventually did the right thing, the delay left other families—possibly with children—exposed to the same violation.
If you spot a hidden camera, don’t just leave—report it, document it, and demand accountability.
Sources
The New York Times: Help! We Found a Hidden Camera in the Bathroom of Our Airbnb
