How to Check for Cameras in Hotel Room

Is it legal to have cameras in hotel rooms

No, hotels can't legally install cameras in private areas like guest rooms and bathrooms, as that would violate the privacy privacy laws in most countries. Even platforms like Airbnb strictly prohibit hosts from placing cameras inside rentals.

Why is it important to check for hidden cameras in hotel rooms

Hotel rooms are an easy target for voyeurs and other bad actors looking to install hidden cameras. These recordings could be uploaded online, sold on the dark web, or used as blackmail. Making it a habit to look for hidden cameras in hotel rooms is the best way to protect your privacy.

How common are hidden cameras in hotels

Small, easily concealed spy cameras can be bought for just a few dollars from major retailers such as Amazon and Walmart. They're often disguised as everyday items like smoke detectors, alarm clocks, and stream footage over Wi-Fi.

There's no exact data on how common this is, but horror stories about hidden cameras in hotels and rentals regularly show up online. For instance, the r/hiddencameras subreddit on Reddit features numerous cases of people discovering hidden cameras—or attempting to hide them.

Hidden microphones are also a privacy nightmare and even harder to detect. Make sure to check our guide on how to detect hidden listening devices with an iPhone.

Where are cameras commonly hidden in hotel rooms

Spy cameras usually come concealed inside regular objects you'd typically expect to see inside a hotel room. Here are some examples:

• Fake smoke detectors: Gives a wide-angle view of rooms and corridors.
• Alarm clocks: Placed on stands next to beds or seating areas.
• Mirrors: A two-way mirror disguised as a regular mirror can hide a camera behind it.
• Power outlets: Embedded inside fake outlets or USB charging ports.
• Lamps and light fixtures: Hidden in the base or inside a light bulb—e.g., the ELK-BLEDOM hidden camera masks itself as a strip light.
• TV stands and picture frames: Discreetly placed inside decorative objects.
• Toys and "nanny cams": Concealed inside stuffed animals or dolls.
• Air vents: Positioned behind vent slats.

How to find hidden camera in hotel room

From physically inspecting the room and scanning the radio frequencies to combing for suspicious devices on Wi-Fi, there are several ways to find hidden cameras in hotel rooms.

1. Conduct physical inspection

Thoroughly check your surroundings. Pay close attention to objects that seem out of place or have small holes that could house a camera. For example, a smoke detector placed just outside the bathroom can be a major red flag—learn how to tell if a smoke detector has a camera.

2. Use flashlight to detect camera lenses

This one works really well. Turn on your phone's flashlight, hold it close to your face, and scan the room. Camera lenses are reflective, so they may glint when exposed to light.

3. Scan for radio frequencies

Many hidden cameras transmit signals using RF (radio frequency) waves. An RF scanner—a small handheld device you can easily carry—can help detect these signals. Slowly sweep it around the room, focusing on common hiding spots like smoke detectors, alarm clocks, lamps, and vents. If the detector beeps or lights up, move closer to pinpoint the source of the signal.

4. Look for suspicious wires and cables

Almost every hidden camera—even those that broadcast over Wi-Fi—requires a constant source of power. Look for wires leading to objects like smoke detectors, alarm clocks, or USB chargers.

5. Check connected devices on Wi-Fi network

Some hidden cameras rely on Wi-Fi to transmit footage, meaning they are likely connected to the building's main network. If you have administrative access—or if you're a rental owner—you can tell if there are cameras in your hotel rooms by logging into your router through a browser. If you're a guest, your best option is to use an app designed to detect hidden cameras on the network.

6. Try apps for detecting hidden cameras

Clario Anti Spy is an anti-spyware solution that scans Wi-Fi networks to detect hidden cameras and other suspicious devices. It offers a range of privacy-focused features, including a Spy cam detector, to help keep you safe.

Here's how to check for hidden cameras in hotel rooms with Clario Anti Spy:

1. Download Clario Anti Spy and subscribe to create an account.
2. Tap Scan under Spy cam detector.
3. Connect to the main Wi-Fi network and wait for the scan to complete.
4. If you see a device show up under the Suspicious Devices section, tap it and follow the on-screen instructions to learn more.

Clario Anti Spy also includes 24/7 technical support. If you have questions, tap the Messages icon to talk to a security expert.

What to do if you find hidden camera in your hotel room

If you find one or more hidden cameras in your hotel room, here's what you can do:

• Do not touch or remove the camera: Cover it, but don't disconnect any wires or tamper with the device—it serves as evidence.
• Document the camera: Take clear photos and videos of its location and appearance. This will be useful when reporting the incident.
• Contact hotel management: Notify the staff or owner immediately. If you feel unsafe, request a room change or refund.
• Report to the police: Hidden cameras in private spaces are illegal. File a police report to ensure a proper investigation takes place.
• Alert travel authorities: If the hotel doesn't take the incident seriously, file a complaint at the local tourism board or customer protection agency.
• Leave a review or warning: Share your experience online to inform and protect future guests.

Conclusion

Most hotels prioritize guest privacy, but a quick room inspection can help ensure your safety and peace of mind. Install Clario Anti Spy on your phone to make it easy to identify spycams that transmit data over Wi-Fi. If you detect a camera in your hotel room, avoid tampering with the device and report it to management or law enforcement immediately.