Airbnb announced on Monday that it will be banning the use of indoor security cameras in listings worldwide by the end of next month. The San Francisco-based online rental platform stated that it is looking to “simplify” its security-camera policy while prioritizing privacy. Juniper Downs, Airbnb's head of community policy and partnerships, mentioned that these changes were made in consultation with guests, hosts, and privacy experts, with the goal of ensuring that the policies work for the global community.

Previously, Airbnb allowed hosts to have indoor security cameras in common areas as long as they were disclosed on the listing page. However, the new policy clarifies that indoor security cameras are now prohibited in any listing, regardless of their location or purpose. Hosts will still be allowed to use doorbell cameras and noise-decibel monitors in common spaces, as long as they disclose the presence of these devices to guests.

The majority of listings on Airbnb do not currently report having indoor security cameras, so the policy update is expected to impact only a small number of hosts. Those hosts who do have indoor security cameras have until April 30 to remove them. After this date, a host who violates the new policy could face consequences, including listing or account removal from the platform.

The use of indoor security cameras in Airbnb listings has been a source of frustration for travelers using the platform, with concerns about privacy and surveillance. The announcement of the policy change comes shortly after NBC's "Saturday Night Live" aired a skit poking fun at cameras in an Airbnb listing's toilet. Despite this, Airbnb reported strong demand and revenue growth in its fourth-quarter earnings report last month, indicating that the company continues to thrive despite the policy changes.