Airbnb to ban use of security cameras inside rental properties
Airbnb says it is banning the use of indoor security cameras in its rental properties around the globe from next month.
The company said in the past it has allowed the use of indoor security cameras in common areas like hallways and living rooms but is clamping down on their use in order to "continue to prioritize the privacy of our community".
It said devices have never been permitted in sleeping areas or bathrooms and indoor cameras always had to be disclosed in the property details and clearly visible.
A statement from the online rental platform said: "The update to this policy simplifies our approach and makes clear that security cameras are not allowed inside listings, regardless of their location, purpose or prior disclosure."
Under the new policy, property owners will still be allowed to use outdoor security cameras including in doorbells and noise monitors.
But these devices will not be allowed to cover certain outdoor areas like an enclosed outdoor shower or sauna.
On Tuesday, Juniper Downs, Airbnbs head of community policy and partnerships, said the upcoming changes were made after consultation with guests, hosts and privacy experts.
"Our goal was to create new, clear rules that provide our community with greater clarity about what to expect on Airbnb," he said.
The company said the update is only expected to impact a small number of listings as the majority of properties on the side do not report having security cameras.
The change will come into effect on 30 April. Breaches of the policy after this date could lead to properties being removed from the site, the company said.
Source : https://news.sky.com/story/airbnb-to-ban-use-of-security-cameras-inside-rental-properties-13093130 |