Hidden cameras in holiday rentals: your rights and how to stay safe
A British couple’s anniversary trip to Madrid turned into a nightmare when they discovered hidden cameras pointed at their bed in an Airbnb rental. The incident is a stark reminder that holiday rental scams and privacy breaches can happen anywhere — and it’s worth knowing your rights before you book.
Donna and Raymond Nunn, from Kent, arrived at their Madrid apartment on 3 August 2026. While Raymond was resting the next day, he spotted a camera in the bedroom with a green light flashing, pointed directly at their bed. They contacted Airbnb immediately and were told to leave, but it was 8pm and they had nowhere safe to go. They spent an anxious night in the apartment before finding alternative accommodation two hours away the following morning.
This case highlights a real gap between property listings and reality. Although Airbnb banned hidden cameras inside rental properties worldwide in 2024, the rules only allow doorbell cameras and noise monitors in common areas — and these must be disclosed on the listing. There’s clearly still work to do in enforcement.
What can you do to protect yourself?
Before booking any holiday rental, check the listing carefully for camera disclosures. Look at photos closely and read reviews thoroughly — previous guests often mention safety concerns. When you arrive, do a quick sweep of bedrooms and bathrooms for any unusual devices. Small cameras can look like smoke detectors, air fresheners or USB chargers, so be thorough.
If you find undisclosed cameras, contact the platform immediately (as the Nunns did with Airbnb) and leave if you don’t feel safe. Document everything with photos. Most reputable platforms like Airbnb offer full refunds for serious breaches and will remove listings.
In the UK, you’re protected by consumer law. The Consumer Rights Act 2015 means you’re entitled to a service that’s “as described” — hidden cameras definitely breach that. You can claim compensation through the platform, small claims court, or your travel insurance if it applies.
If you’ve had a bad experience with a holiday rental, report it to Citizens Advice Consumer Service and the platform’s complaints team. Your feedback helps protect other travellers.