S.T.O.P. Welcomes Airbnb Camera Ban As ‘Privacy & Safety Win’

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For Immediate Release S.T.O.P. Welcomes Airbnb Camera Ban As ‘Privacy & Safety Win’ (New York, NY 3/11/2024) – Today, the Surveillance Technology Oversight Project (S.T.O.P.), a New York-based privacy and civil rights group, welcomed Airbnb’s policy banning cameras inside properties on the home sharing website as a privacy and safety win. The civil rights group had advocated for Airbnb to repeal its prior camera policy since 2022, which allowed cameras in common areas, like kitchens, living rooms, and hallways. SEE: An update on our policy on security cameras https://news.airbnb.com/an-update-on-our-policy-on-security-cameras/ “No one should have to worry about being recorded in a rental, whether the bedroom, the living room, or a hall,” said Surveillance Technology Oversight Project Executive Director Albert Fox Cahn. “Getting rid of these cameras is a clear win for privacy and safety, and we know that these recording devices are ripe for abuse. When people find that they’re being watched where they live, it’s not just creepy, it’s a profound violation. This is a huge win for those of us who have fought to ensure that renters don’t have to worry about being watched every moment they’re awake. We’re grateful that Airbnb listened to those of us who told them that a change was needed.” The Surveillance Technology Oversight Project is a non-profit advocacy organization and legal services provider. S.T.O.P. litigates and advocates for privacy, fighting excessive local and state-level surveillance. Our work highlights the discriminatory impact of surveillance on Muslim Americans, immigrants, and communities of color. --END-- CONTACT: S.T.O.P. Executive Director Albert Fox Cahn. Copyright © 2021 Surveillance Technology Oversight Project, All rights reserved.