Before dust settles on the debate about the safety of short-stay accommodation sector in Kenya, Airbnb has enforced a new rule banning use of indoor security cameras in listings across the world.
- •Hosts violating the new rule after end of April will face consequences which include listing or account removal.
- •Devices like doorbell cameras and noise decibel monitors continue to be permitted on Airbnb.
- •Banning the use of indoor security cameras is part of efforts to simplify policy on security cameras and other devices, and to continue to prioritize the privacy of its community.
“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,” said Airbnb’s Head of Community Policy and Partnerships, Juniper Downs.
“As the majority of listings on Airbnb do not report having a security camera, this update is expected to impact a smaller subset of listings on the platform,” Downs said.
These cameras are also not allowed in certain outdoor areas where there’s a greater expectation of privacy, like an enclosed outdoor shower or sauna. Hosts are also required to disclose the presence of noise decibel monitors, which assess decibel level only and do not record or transmit sounds or conversations and are only allowed in common spaces of listings.
Alongside a ban on indoor cameras, the revised policy will also see more comprehensive rules on the use of outdoor security cameras and other devices, including noise decibel monitors.
Devices like doorbell cameras and noise decibel monitors continue to be permitted on Airbnb and can be an effective, privacy-protective way for hosts to monitor security for their home and get ahead of issues like unauthorized parties. However, hosts will be required to disclose the presence and general location of any outdoor cameras before guests book.
Airbnb has been on the limelight in Kenya following some isolated high profile criminal cases resulting into death of two female early this year.
The two incidents in Nairobi prompted the Ministry of Tourism to enhance regulation in the sector.
“To uphold the integrity of our tourism industry, the Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife, through the Tourism Regulatory Authority, will rigorously enforce compliance, taking legal action against any violations of TRA licensing laws. Late renewals will be subject to penalties and other consequences as stipulated by law.” said Alfred Mutua, Cabinet Secretary Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife.
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