Airbnb, an online platform offering short and long-term homestays, has banned the use of indoor security cameras in rental properties around the world by the end of next month. The San Francisco-based company stated that it is seeking to ‘simplify’ its policy on security cameras and other devices while prioritising the privacy of the community. The revised policy shall come into effect from April 30, read a statement.
Earlier, the company had allowed the use of indoor security cameras in common areas of the property like hallways and living rooms, as long as they were disclosed on the listing page before the booking and were visible and not located in spaces like sleeping areas and bathrooms.
“Our goal was to create new, clear rules that provide our community with greater clarity about what to expect on Airbnb. These changes were made in consultation with our guests, hosts and privacy experts, and we will continue to seek feedback to help ensure our policies work for our global community,” Airbnb’s Head of Community Policy and Partnerships, Juniper Downs, said.
The majority of listings on the platform have not reported installing a security camera. “This update is expected to impact a smaller subset of listings on the platform,” the statement said.
Further, the revised policy sets out comprehensive rules on the use of outdoor security cameras and other devices, including noise decibel monitors.
Under the new policy, hosts will be allowed to use doorbell cameras and noise-decibel monitors. However, they will be required to disclose the presence and general location of these devices before the guests book the property.
The cameras will be prohibited from monitoring indoor spaces of the property and will not be allowed in specific areas where there is a greater expectation of privacy. This includes places like an enclosed outdoor shower or sauna.
As per the new policy, hosts will further be required to disclose the presence of noise decibel monitors on the property. These devices can assess decibel levels only and should not record or transmit sounds or conversations. Also, they will be allowed in common spaces of listings only.
After April 30, the company said reported violations will be investigated.
(Edited by : Sudarsanan Mani)
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