Tag: spy cams

You’re not paranoid — you are being watched. Facial-recognition cameras, store surveillance cameras, traffic cameras and more are all watching all the time.

Adding to the creep factor is the number of cases where cameras have been found in Vrbos, Airbnbs and other vacation rentals. Tap or click here for an Airbnb scam warning.

We can’t help you with cameras run by the government or retailers, but we do have tips on what you can do to make sure your vacation rentals are free of hidden cameras — or at least their presence is fully disclosed to you. Also, when is it OK for property owners to place surveillance cameras?

Tricks to finding hidden cameras in vacation rentals

Hidden cameras can usually be found in seemingly mundane devices such as wall outlets, smoke detectors, phone chargers and clock radios. But there are a number of other devices that can act as spy cams as well — clocks, picture frames, lamps and bathroom accessories, to name a few.

With that in mind, we offer these low-tech and high-tech ways to suss out hidden cameras. Tap or click here to learn more about hidden cameras.

Physically check the room

Do a complete sweep of the surroundings. This is the first order of business if you suspect a room is bugged. Ask yourself, where would a spy hide a camera or bugging device? Don’t just check for cameras; also look for microphone transmitters.

Search the room for unusual decor like out-of-place picture frames and random fixtures. Examine them for pinholes that may be used for a camera lens.

Check under chairs, tables, shelves and couches. These are all excellent hiding places for tiny microphones. Other hiding places could be books, stuffed toys or pillows.

Examine and trace wires that don’t seem to go anywhere. Although wireless surveillance gadgets are the norm now, wired devices are still in use.

Listen for strange sounds

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