I Found a Camera in Our Airbnb Then the Host’s Reply Chilled Me

That’s terrifying—and you handled the big thing right: leave first, don’t confront. Next time, get to a public place and preserve evidence (photos/video of devices in place, the listing, messages with the host), but avoid dismantling anything further—don’t destroy potential evidence.

Do a quick sweep before you go: look for pinholes in smoke/CO detectors, clocks, vents, USB chargers, and picture frames. Use your phone flashlight to spot glass reflections, your phone camera to catch infrared LEDs (they’ll glow), and a Wi-Fi scanner app to see unknown devices on the network. If you suspect a tracker, power down phones, check bags/clothes with an RF detector (or at least inspect seams), and move to a different location.

Report it in three places: local police (file a report), the platform’s Trust & Safety team (ask for relocation/refund and to preserve host communications), and your card issuer (in case of fraud). Don’t message the host again—keep all communication through the platform.

[match_live_post]

Afterward, rotate passwords used on that Wi-Fi, enable two-factor auth, and monitor accounts. For future stays, travel with a tiny RF detector, a plug-in camera cover for smoke detectors near beds, and use your phone to scan the room on arrival. Most stays are fine—but a 10-minute sweep buys a lot of peace of mind.

[match_live_post]

Related News