A woman has shared her chilling account of discovering a hidden camera in the Airbnb she rented with friends on TikTok. Kennedy Calwell and her companions were in Vancouver, Canada, to celebrate a birthday when her “paranoid” friend said she had a feeling that they were being watched. After scouring every inch of the property, the group found a strange electrical outlet that could not accommodate any appliance cord. Suspecting that it was a camera, they took it apart and found a tiny device hidden inside.
Calwell’s video has now been viewed over 6.5 million times. The group contacted the police, who seem to have confirmed that there were multiple cameras on the rented property. An Airbnb spokesperson confirmed that hidden cameras were prohibited, and the property in question has been removed from the hosting site pending an investigation.
UPDATE: The law enforcement agency investigating this report, the Sunshine Coast Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), has today publicly confirmed that the devices reported “were in fact electrical outlets and did not contain cameras, lenses or any type of storage/recording devices”. You can read the Sunshine Coast RCMP’s full media release here.
The incident has raised the alarming possibility that others could also be subjected to such invasions of privacy on properties rented through Airbnb and similar platforms. Here are some tips to help you detect hidden cameras in an Airbnb.
1. Check for Anomalies: Look out for scratches, wires, or anything that seems off about furniture, light fixtures, and electrical outlets.
2. Use a Flashlight App: Use a flashlight app on your phone to scan the room for any reflective surfaces that could indicate the presence of a camera lens.
3. Check Airbnb’s Cameras Policy: Review the platform’s cameras policy on its website; it’s a violation of Airbnb’s terms of service and may result in legal action.
4. Use a Detection Device: Purchase a hidden camera detector online, which is designed to detect wireless signals that cameras use to transmit images and video.
5. Check for Motion Sensors: Motion sensors may suggest the presence of hidden cameras or recording devices, so keep an eye out for anything unusual.
In conclusion, while it is unlikely that you will find hidden cameras in every Airbnb, it is important to be vigilant and cautious when renting private properties. If you discover any hidden cameras, report it immediately to Airbnb and seek legal recourse if necessary. Stay safe and have a pleasant stay!
