Look for a light. The easiest thing you can do to detect a hidden camera is look for a light. Many cameras have a light on them that is easy to see in a dark room. So, as soon as you get to a room, turn off all the lights, close the curtains, and look in each room for a light.

As of early 2026, Airbnb has a strict global ban on all indoor security cameras, regardless of whether they are "disclosed" in the listing. This policy, implemented in 2024, prohibits hosts from having any cameras inside the "private" areas of the home, including living rooms, hallways, and bedrooms. Outdoor cameras, such as doorbell cameras (Ring) and driveway monitors, are still permitted but must be explicitly disclosed in the listing description, and they cannot be used to monitor the interior of the home or areas where guests have a high expectation of privacy (like an outdoor shower or pool area). If you suspect there is a "hidden" camera in your rental, the best "pro-tip" is to turn off the lights and use your phone's camera to look for the tiny red or purple glow of infrared LEDs, or use a "Network Scanner" app to see if there are any suspicious devices connected to the Wi-Fi. If you find an undisclosed or indoor camera, you should document it and contact Airbnb support immediately, as this is a major violation of their safety and privacy terms.