Airbnb is arguably one of the most convenient, money-saving inventions ever. Much like Uber and other apps of the sort, Airbnb has given regular people the chance to provide a service that used to be limited and controlled by companies and hotels. Although these apps and sites have created a large host of problems with hotels and taxi companies, they’ve made it easier for people to find options that accommodate to their budget. Of course, the fact that strangers are running these services has led to a whole new string of issues.
While experiences tend to be positive on Airbnb, there are a few stories out there that make you wish there was more security involved. In worst case scenarios the privacy of clients is violated, with some of them finding hidden cameras in their bedrooms. Here’s what you can do in order to check everything is okay with the place you’ve paid for.
Keep an eye out for unusual or out of place objects
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Hidden cameras tend to look clunky and out of the ordinary. While a good hidden camera will be able to fool those who don’t know any better, most people with some sort of knowledge on the matter can differentiate them from other objects. Hidden cameras have lenses, making them easy to spot if you shine a flashlight on them, and they’re always placed very conveniently. Keep an eye out for objects that look like they don’t belong, like a smoke detector tucked in a weird corner or a lamp that’s placed somewhere where its light doesn’t have much reach.
Scan the Wi-Fi network
Hidden cameras can record on SIM cards or on Wi-Fi networks. If you see a strange device listed on your phone’s or laptop’s Wi-Fi menu, this could be an indication that there’s a hidden camera around. Network Scanner and other security apps can help you sort this out, listing out all of the devices connected to the network you’re using.
Avoid paranoia
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While knowing all of this information makes it easy for you to walk around paranoid all the time, this leaves you no room to have fun on your trip and enjoy yourself. Hidden cameras are dangerous when they’re located in places like bedrooms and bathrooms, which are the spots you should be on the lookout for. A camera in the living room or in the yard doesn’t mean that your Airbnb hosts have bad intentions.
