Some owners might put hidden recording devices around their property to spy on you. Why? Some owners claim it's because they had terrible experiences with renters and want to ensure nothing will happen to their property again.
Either way, this is illegal, and you have the right to know if you are being recorded in your home. Here's how you spot hidden cameras in Airbnbs and hotels!
Odd Gadgets
Check your accommodation for any old gadgets. For example, it could be an alarm clock plugged into a phone charger instead of the normal plug.
Look around the room to see any object that looks out of the ordinary or positioned in a strange way.
Read The Description
Before you book your accommodation, read the descriptions carefully. If a host decided to put a camera, he or she will have to put those details in there.
The common locations to set up a hidden camera could be smoke detectors, stuffed animals, clock radios, USB wall plugs, and men's shower gel.
Just Ask The Owner
You could also just ask the actual owner about the cameras. Most will admit to having them and the rest who try to cover their lies will be very easy to catch.
If you've rented the accommodation through a rental service, you can ask them about it, too.
Unplug It
If you notice something strange in your room, the simple solution is just to unplug it.
But keep in mind that some modern hidden cameras don't always need a power source to work.
Use Your Clothes
You can also use your clothes to cover the suspicious object. That way the camera won't be able to record you.
Or, next level, place the odd-looking object in a drawer or closet.
They Are Very Small
Keep in mind that hidden cameras usually come inside of small objects like necklaces, pens, motion detectors, and Bluetooth speakers.
Some are also very tiny. They can be placed inside picture frames, house plants, blinds, or lampshades.
Device Detectors
There are device detectors that can be bought online or in stores. They can locate hidden cameras, RF frequencies, bugs, and more.
So, if you often stay in Air BnBs or hotels, you might want to invest int his device.
Unplug The Router
If you're worried about being recorded in your room, you could also just unplug the router.
You might be without Wi-Fi for a while – so it's best to do it when you aren't planning to use the internet.
Other Places
There are many places to hide cameras. You might want to check DVD cases, tissue boxes, makeup mirrors, tv/cable boxes, paintings, tissue boxes, and other wall decorations.
As you can see, there are endless ways to hide a camera.
The List Goes On
Other possible locations are teapots, coffee makers, air vents, bookshelves, coat hooks, curtain rods, and sofa cushions.
However, more often than not, a simple call will solve your problem.
Make A Call
When you're on a call, just walk around the room to see if there is some kind of noise noise interference.
If so, there might be a hidden camera somewhere in your accommodation.
There's An App
You can download an app on your smartphone that will scan the WiFi network to detect any hidden cameras.
This won't work for wired cameras, though.
The Next Step
If you do end up discovering a hidden camera in your accommodation, take a photo or video of it as evidence.
Make sure not to touch it and get your fingerprints all over it.
Make The Call
First, contact the Air Bnb Trust & Safety team or the service provider and notify them of the hidden camera.
They will tell you how to move forward, which is usually by calling the police.