Hidden cameras in hotels or Airbnb? Why it's good to always have a detector with you

The accommodation seems good, the room is clean, and the reviews are good as well. But what secrets can a rented room hide? The real possibility that someone is watching you without you knowing. More and more travelers are discovering hidden cameras and illegally installed microphones in seemingly safe spaces. If you want to understand how you can protect yourself, read on.

A hidden camera and microphone detector might be the device you never even thought could be missing from your luggage—here’s why!

Where can cameras and microphones be hidden?

Spy surveillance devices are small, easy to hide, and do not emit signals that attract attention unless you have a dedicated device. Here are the most common places where they are installed:

• power outlets with USB ports or fake outlets

• digital clocks or radios

• phone chargers

• smoke detectors or motion sensors

• picture frames, mirrors, vases

• portable speakers

• decorative candles or artificial plants

Some cameras film in infrared, without a visible LED. Microphones can function completely silently and can record locally, on a card. You don’t see them, you don’t hear them. Only they can transmit in real time everything they record.

Never say never, so don’t live with the belief that it can’t happen to you.

Real examples – hidden cameras discovered by tourists

South Korea – hotels with spy cameras

Over 1,400 people were illegally filmed in 30 hotels. The cameras were installed in power outlets, smoke detectors, and wall mounts. The footage was streamed live on a paid website. The case was investigated by the police and reached the international press.
See source: BBC

Ireland – camera in an Airbnb

A family discovered a hidden camera inside a smoke detector after analyzing the Wi-Fi network and noticing a suspicious device. Later, with the help of a physical detector, they found the active lens.
See source: CNN

Unfortunately, such situations are not rare. They repeat themselves, in different locations, in different countries, and not even the price you pay for accommodation guarantees you 100% safety and privacy. You can never know if someone has bad intentions.

How to check your accommodation room, step by step?

• Turn off the lights and look for red or blue reflection points

• Check power outlets, smoke detectors, and all unusual electronic devices

• Scan with the detector

• Activate optical mode and check mirrors, frames, decorative objects

• Check the walls and ceiling, especially in the corners of the room

• If you find something suspicious, do not touch it. Record it and leave the location

Why can’t you use a phone app and why do you need a hidden camera and spy microphone detector?

Here’s why apps are not reliable!

Even if it would be more practical, a microphone detector app will not be useful to you. You’ve found dozens. Some promise to turn your phone into a real radar. But reality looks different. Their limitations are obvious:

• they do not detect cameras that record without an internet connection

• they do not identify passive microphones

• they do not scan RF or GSM frequencies

• they rely on the phone’s camera and flashlight

• they give false alarms for routers or other common electronics

A phone is not professional equipment. If you want to be truly safe, you need a dedicated hidden camera and microphone detector.

 

What does a real detector do and how does it help you?

On the market there are many models of devices that detect spy cameras and microphones; most models will:

• detect RF (radio frequency) signals, used by wireless microphones and cameras

• find hidden lenses with pulsed light or laser, including miniature ones

• scan GSM, 4G, and Wi-Fi frequencies, including weak signals

• signal the presence of active devices, even if they are not connected to a network

Some models, such as those from SMTSECURITY, can be easily used even by people without technical experience. If you want to find the best microphone detector, forget about apps. Choose a real device.

We, the SMTSECURITY team, often see people who use apps but end up concluding that they are not enough. Our experience has shown us that only equipment like those in our range offer real results.

In addition to this model, in the hidden camera and microphone detector category you can find several options, depending on your needs. There are simple detectors for travel or occasional checks, as well as more complex equipment, suitable for company headquarters, commercial spaces, or even for a private detective.

The category includes:

• RF detectors that identify radio signals emitted by wireless cameras, microphones, and GPS trackers;

• Detectors with optical function, for finding spy camera lenses, even when they do not emit a signal;

• Devices that scan GSM, 4G, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth frequencies, useful when you suspect the presence of an active device in the room;

• Compact models, easy to carry, suitable for those who travel frequently or often rent accommodations;

• Professional detectors, with high sensitivity, also used in fields such as security, investigations, or law.

All products are tested and come with clear instructions, so you can use them even if this is your first purchase.

An example of a real detector available on SMTSECURITY:

DEGI-ProSan AI – detects wireless cameras, microphones, trackers, and recorders; suitable for complete coverage.
If you want to find the best detector for travel, rentals, or personal use, you can start with the hidden camera and spy microphone detector category.

When choosing your accommodation, don’t look only at photos and reviews. Think also about what can’t be seen. Hidden cameras and microphones are more widespread than you think.

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can a hidden camera detector interfere with other electronic devices in the room?
   No, a camera and microphone detector does not interfere with the normal operation of other devices. It only scans for signals or lenses without affecting them.

2. Can I use a single detector for multiple types of signals (Wi-Fi, GSM, RF, Bluetooth)?
   It depends on the model. Some detectors cover only RF frequencies, while others are more advanced and detect multiple types of transmissions. Check the product specifications before purchase.

3. Is it legal to use a camera and microphone detector?
   Yes, it is legal to check your own accommodation or the space you are in, as long as you do not invade someone else’s privacy or access areas you are not allowed to enter.

4. How often should I check a new room I stay in?
   Ideally, immediately after entering the room. The initial check is usually sufficient if everything seems fine, but you can repeat the scan if you notice anything suspicious later.

5. Can the detector be used in cars, offices, or at home?
   Yes. Detectors can be used in any enclosed space where you suspect a hidden surveillance device. They are also useful for offices, homes, or vehicles.