Hidden cameras can be difficult to spot when disguised as everyday objects, including smoke detectors, chargers and picture frames. A quick check with a phone may help travelers feel more confident in unfamiliar accommodation, although the full scale of the issue is unknown.
A practical first step is to close the curtains, switch off the lights and slowly sweep the room with a flashlight. Look for reflections from camera lenses or small indicator lights, paying particular attention to smoke detectors, televisions, air purifiers, lights and areas near beds or showers. Mirrors can also be checked: light should reflect from an ordinary mirror, while a two-way mirror may behave differently. In a simple finger test, a real mirror typically shows a gap between a fingertip and its reflection.
A phone camera may also reveal infrared light emitted by some night-vision cameras. First, point the camera at a TV remote and press a button to see whether the remote’s infrared signal appears on screen as a white or purple dot. The front-facing camera may detect infrared more readily, but it is worth trying both cameras. If the phone can see the signal, use it to scan the room.
Some cameras connect to Wi-Fi and may appear in network-scanning apps such as Fing, Net Analyzer or WiFiman. After joining the property’s network, look for unfamiliar devices or names that suggest camera equipment, including terms such as “cam” or “camera.” Brand names such as Wyze, Blink or TP-Link may also appear. These scans can be ambiguous, since ordinary devices such as printers and televisions also connect to Wi-Fi. Checking nearby Wi-Fi networks and Bluetooth connections may reveal other devices, too.
Phone-based checks have limits. Cameras that store recordings on memory cards may not appear in Wi-Fi or Bluetooth scans, so combining a physical search, an infrared check and a network scan offers a more thorough approach without guaranteeing detection.
If you believe you have found a camera, verify your suspicions with both a physical check and a digital scan. Do not touch the device; photograph it, contact the police and notify the accommodation platform. Airbnb bans indoor recording devices, while Vrbo prohibits recording devices and advises guests to report discoveries promptly. Both platforms may offer remedies to affected guests, according to their policies.
Sources: Engadget.