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Airbnb Bans Indoor Security Cameras Globally: Understand How to Navigate This New Policy as a Host

In a recent move, Airbnb has implemented a significant update to its security camera policy, marking a shift towards enhancing privacy within its community. With the ban on indoor security cameras, property managers now face the challenge of maintaining security while respecting guest privacy. This is where having a device like WYND Sentry becomes invaluable, providing property managers with comprehensive, non-intrusive security monitoring capabilities without compromising the privacy of guests.

Effective April 30, 2024, Airbnb has decided to prohibit the use of indoor security cameras across all listings worldwide, reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding the privacy of guests and hosts alike.

Previously, Airbnb permitted the use of indoor security cameras in common areas of listings, provided they were disclosed on the listing page, visible, and not positioned in private spaces such as bedrooms or bathrooms. However, the new policy simplifies this approach, outright banning indoor security cameras regardless of their location, purpose, or prior disclosure.

Juniper Downs, Airbnb’s Head of Community Policy and Partnerships, emphasized the importance of clarity in these rules, stating, "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’ll continue to seek feedback to help ensure our policies work for our global community." 

Despite the ban on indoor cameras, it’s important for hosts to understand the changes in policy relating to other devices like doorbell cameras and noise decibel monitors. While noise monitoring devices are still permitted, Hosts are required to disclose the presence of noise monitors and are only allowed in common spaces of listings. 

These devices serve as effective tools for hosts to monitor security without compromising privacy. This is where WYND Sentry’s advanced features position itself as a standout solution for hosts seeking peace of mind while respecting guests' privacy. With its non-intrusive design and groundbreaking capabilities, Sentry represents a new standard in security monitoring. Notably, Sentry is the only monitor capable of monitoring noise levels and detecting recreational smoke from cigarettes, marijuana, and cigars

Sentry utilizes cutting-edge AI technology, powered by airID, to swiftly detect and alert users when smoking is detected. This innovative feature is invaluable for maintaining a smoke-free environment and mitigating any potential safety hazards linked to indoor smoking. 

Moreover, Sentry's ability to simultaneously monitor noise levels adds another dimension to its power and utility. Sentry protects your guests’ privacy and cannot listen to your conversations, it only measures noise levels and it does not store any sound data. By detecting and alerting hosts to unusual noise levels, WYND Sentry helps prevent disturbances and enhances the overall guest experience without compromising privacy. Sentry forms a comprehensive security ecosystem that empowers hosts to maintain a safe and secure environment for guests while adhering to Airbnb's privacy guidelines.

If preferred, hosts can disable the noise monitoring feature of Sentry and can choose to only use the device to detect smoking. Stay tuned for this upcoming feature launching April 2024. This article will be updated with information on the new feature once available.

To ensure hosts have adequate time to comply with these updates, the revised policy will take effect on April 30, 2024. Following this date, reported violations of the policy will be thoroughly investigated, with potential consequences including listing or account removal.

To support hosts on Airbnb, we’re offering 3 months off your WYND Sentry subscription (25% discount) with code AIRBNB3. Experience peace of mind today.

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