Airbnb host removed from platform after family find hidden camera

Airbnb has removed a "bad actor" from its platform after a family allegedly found a hidden camera in a host property.

The family, from New Zealand, found the camera concealed in a smoke alarm in their accommodation in Cork, Northern Ireland, reports the Irish Times.

The family complained to Airbnb, but said the platform initially exonerated the host and relisted the property, only removing it following a reinvestigation.

"We have permanently removed this bad actor from our platform. Our original handling of this incident did not meet the high standards we set for ourselves, and we have apologised to the family and fully refunded their stay. There have been over half a billion guest arrivals in Airbnb listings to date and negative incidents are incredibly rare."

Airbnb has guidelines forbidding the use of hidden cameras, or any cameras in bedrooms and bathrooms. Any cameras, including security cameras, must be disclosed.

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