Airbnb is banning the use of security cameras inside rental properties.
In an update on its policy, the company said its rules for hosts would change on April 30.
It said this would bar the use of indoor security cameras across all properties let through the platform, after oncerns about guests’ privacy.
Historically Airbnb had allowed security cameras in common areas such as living rooms and hallways, as long as the location of the equipment was made clear.
“Our goal was to create new, clear rules that provide our community with greater clarity about what to expect on Airbnb,” said Airbnb’s Head of Community Policy and Partnerships, Juniper Downs, in a statement.
“These changes were made in consultation with our guests, hosts and privacy experts, and we’ll continue to seek feedback to help ensure our policies work for our global community.”
Ms Downs said she expected the policy to affect relatively few properties as most do not have indoor security cameras.
Some Airbnb users have previously expressed privacy concerns about security cameras, although Airbnb has always banned their use in private spaces such as bedrooms and bathrooms.
The new rules will also bar outdoor cameras which face inwards into the property.
However, outdoor cameras such as ‘Ring’ doorbells and noise monitoring equipment in communal areas are still permitted, although these will still need to be made clear on a property’s listing.
The announcement comes just over a week after US comedy show Saturday Night Live aired a spoof advert about the company which joked about a camera being hidden in a toilet.
The skit has been watched more than a million times on YouTube.
