A shocking discovery in an Airbnb bathroom raises big questions about privacy
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You book a vacation rental, settle in, and unwind—trusting that your private moments will stay private.
But what if they don’t?
That’s exactly what one traveler discovered in Morocco, and her unsettling experience is sparking fresh concerns about hidden cameras in short-term rentals.
Pauline, a social media user who goes by @himynamespaul_, was staying with friends in Marrakesh when she noticed something strange: a small picture frame with a Yorkie puppy had mysteriously appeared in their bathroom.
It hadn’t been there the day before—and it was oddly aimed at the shower.
Curious and suspicious, Pauline took a closer look using a flashlight.
What she found wasn’t just unsettling—it was alarming.
Beneath the plastic was a circular object that looked like a camera lens.
On the back of the frame were a USB port, SD card slot, and a power switch.
It was clearly a surveillance device.
As if the discovery itself wasn’t bad enough, Pauline reviewed older videos from earlier in the trip and realized the same frame had been in another bathroom at first.
Then, it was moved into hers. That meant someone had entered the property while they were out.
She acted quickly. Still in a towel, she and her friends contacted local authorities.
The police took the host into custody.
Airbnb removed the listing, and Pauline is now pursuing legal action.
She hasn’t shared more details, citing an upcoming court hearing.
Pauline’s video documenting the incident quickly gained traction—racking up nearly 10 million views on social media.
Commenters were horrified.
“That’s not the only one—just the only one you found,” one person wrote.
Others were shocked to learn that similar hidden spy frames can be purchased online for under $30.
Unfortunately, this isn’t an isolated case.
Airbnb has a strict ban on surveillance devices in private spaces like bedrooms and bathrooms.
But enforcement can be hit or miss.
In 2024, CNN reported that Airbnb received tens of thousands of complaints related to hidden cameras—some involving properties still active on the platform despite investigations.
These devices are cheap, easy to conceal, and disguised as everything from alarm clocks to smoke detectors.
For travelers, that means an extra layer of vigilance is now necessary—especially in private spaces.
Source: TikTok / @himynamespaul_
If you’re staying in a rental home or apartment, here are some smart ways to check for unwanted surveillance:
Pauline’s story is unsettling, but it’s also a powerful reminder: our expectation of privacy in rented spaces isn’t always guaranteed.
As these devices become smaller, cheaper, and more common, travelers—especially older adults—need to stay aware and informed.
Read next: Airbnb Horror Stories: 5 Shocking Reasons to Rethink Your Next Stay!
Have you ever had a similar experience? Do you have any safety tips for fellow travelers? We’d love to hear your story—feel free to share in the comments!
But what if they don’t?
That’s exactly what one traveler discovered in Morocco, and her unsettling experience is sparking fresh concerns about hidden cameras in short-term rentals.
Pauline, a social media user who goes by @himynamespaul_, was staying with friends in Marrakesh when she noticed something strange: a small picture frame with a Yorkie puppy had mysteriously appeared in their bathroom.
It hadn’t been there the day before—and it was oddly aimed at the shower.
Curious and suspicious, Pauline took a closer look using a flashlight.
A peaceful vacation rental may not be as private as it seems—experts warn travelers to stay alert. Image Source: Pexels / Noelle Otto.
What she found wasn’t just unsettling—it was alarming.
Beneath the plastic was a circular object that looked like a camera lens.
On the back of the frame were a USB port, SD card slot, and a power switch.
It was clearly a surveillance device.
The frame moved—and that made things worse
As if the discovery itself wasn’t bad enough, Pauline reviewed older videos from earlier in the trip and realized the same frame had been in another bathroom at first.
Then, it was moved into hers. That meant someone had entered the property while they were out.
She acted quickly. Still in a towel, she and her friends contacted local authorities.
The police took the host into custody.
Airbnb removed the listing, and Pauline is now pursuing legal action.
She hasn’t shared more details, citing an upcoming court hearing.
Also read: Protect yourself on your next trip: What you need to know about carbon monoxide detectors
A widespread concern
Pauline’s video documenting the incident quickly gained traction—racking up nearly 10 million views on social media.
Commenters were horrified.
“That’s not the only one—just the only one you found,” one person wrote.
Others were shocked to learn that similar hidden spy frames can be purchased online for under $30.
Also read: New security concern: Are YOU being watched?
A growing privacy issue on vacation platforms
Unfortunately, this isn’t an isolated case.
Airbnb has a strict ban on surveillance devices in private spaces like bedrooms and bathrooms.
But enforcement can be hit or miss.
In 2024, CNN reported that Airbnb received tens of thousands of complaints related to hidden cameras—some involving properties still active on the platform despite investigations.
These devices are cheap, easy to conceal, and disguised as everything from alarm clocks to smoke detectors.
For travelers, that means an extra layer of vigilance is now necessary—especially in private spaces.
Source: TikTok / @himynamespaul_
Also read: Are alarm clocks and photo frames secretly spying on you? The hidden ways your everyday items could be recording you (and why it’s totally legal)
Tips to help you spot hidden cameras
If you’re staying in a rental home or apartment, here are some smart ways to check for unwanted surveillance:
- Do a visual sweep: Look for anything unusual or out of place, especially in bedrooms and bathrooms.
- Shine a flashlight around the room: Hidden lenses often reflect light.
- Check electronics and décor: Alarm clocks, smoke detectors, and even picture frames could hide tiny cameras.
- Use your phone in the dark: Some hidden devices emit infrared light—scan the room with your phone’s camera to spot unusual glowing dots.
- Scan for devices: Use an app like Fing to see if any unknown devices are connected to the Wi-Fi network.
- Trust your gut: If something doesn’t feel right, report it. You can contact Airbnb or local law enforcement.
Also read: Your phone has a hidden screen that could help you avoid expensive scams—here’s how to find it
What to do if you find a hidden camera
- Document the device: Take photos and videos showing its location and components.
- Call the police: Report the device to local authorities as soon as possible.
- Report to Airbnb: Use the app or website to file a complaint.
- Protect your privacy: Avoid changing clothes or having sensitive conversations in potentially compromised rooms.
Pauline’s story is unsettling, but it’s also a powerful reminder: our expectation of privacy in rented spaces isn’t always guaranteed.
As these devices become smaller, cheaper, and more common, travelers—especially older adults—need to stay aware and informed.
Read next: Airbnb Horror Stories: 5 Shocking Reasons to Rethink Your Next Stay!
Have you ever had a similar experience? Do you have any safety tips for fellow travelers? We’d love to hear your story—feel free to share in the comments!
