An Australian family of five cut their trip short and fled their Airbnb in Perth after making a disturbing discovery: a blinking camera in the living room. Kriss and Kate Hardman found the device, which appeared to be active, shortly after checking into the four-bedroom property.
Kriss Hardman shared the unsettling find on TikTok, questioning whether such devices are permitted in Airbnbs and expressing his discomfort. The couple, prioritizing the safety of their three children, decided to leave the property immediately and book a hotel instead.
Initially, Airbnb offered to find comparable accommodation, but later, after the family’s repeated appeals, the company provided a refund and secured alternative lodging at no extra cost. Hardman noted that it was disappointing that social media pressure was seemingly required to resolve the issue.
Airbnb Australia and New Zealand confirmed that hosts are strictly forbidden from installing indoor cameras, emphasizing that guest safety is paramount. They stated that they had refunded the family and assisted with rebooking. In cases of safety concerns, Airbnb directs guests to their 24-hour safety line.
The incident has raised concerns on social media about guest privacy and safety within rental accommodations, with many users expressing shock and agreeing that indoor cameras should not be allowed.