How to Detect Hidden Cameras in Your Hotel Room

Searching for hidden cameras in hotel rooms and rentals is an emerging trend as more and more people report the invasion of privacy.

Searching for hidden cameras in hotel rooms and rentals is an emerging trend as more and more people report the invasion of privacy.
It’s a horrifying scenario — finding a hidden camera in your hotel room or vacation rental. And unfortunately, it’s also a recently emerging trend as more and more people report this invasion of privacy. Protect yourself by learning how to check for hidden cameras in your vacation rental or hotel room.

Survey the room

Look for pieces of furniture or appliances that are in unusual places, Plaxe says. For example, a lamp that’s been placed in an unusual location and appears to be specifically angled toward the bed. If you have any suspicions, report them to hotel management.

Disconnect the alarm clock

If there is a bedside clock, O’Rourke unplugs it and places it in a drawer. When it’s anchored in place, he covers it with a towel. “If the clock is returned to its place or uncovered, I either have a problem or a detail-oriented housekeeping staff,” he says.

Cover the peephole on your door

People have used peephole reversers to film inside hotel rooms. “Sports reporter Erin Andrews was victimized in this manner a decade ago, and she won a multi-million-dollar settlement in court,” O’Rourke says.

Don’t use your laptop in expected locations

You may want to take additional precautions if you’re traveling in countries where trade secrets are targeted, such as China or Russia. “Cameras may be pointed at desks to capture computer passwords and other sensitive information,” O’Rourke says. Avoid using your laptop where criminals think you will—including the hotel lobby.