5 tips to check for hidden cameras in your hotel room
Hidden cameras in hotels have become a growing concern for travellers. Here are five simple, reliable checks you can perform to ensure your privacy and peace of mind during any stay.
Start with a careful visual scan When you first enter your room, pause for a moment and look around slowly. Pay attention to everyday objects like alarm clocks, smoke detectors, picture frames, lamps, and USB chargers. Hidden cameras are often disguised as these items. Anything that seems unusually placed—especially pointing toward the bed or bathroom—should be inspected more closely.
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Examine common hiding spots Cameras can be placed in air vents, mirrors, or even wall clocks. Move closer to these objects and look for pinhole openings or small circular reflections that could indicate a lens. You can lightly tap them to check for hollow sounds or loose panels, which may suggest tampering.
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se your phone camera and flashlight A quick way to detect infrared cameras is by turning off the room lights and using your smartphone camera. Slowly scan the room—infrared lights may appear as small, glowing dots on your screen. You can also shine a flashlight across reflective surfaces or dark corners; hidden lenses often reflect light differently from surrounding materials.
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Scan the Wi-Fi network for unfamiliar devices If you’re connected to the hotel’s Wi-Fi, you can use network scanning apps like Fing or Network Analyzer to detect unknown devices. Cameras connected to the same network may show up as “IP cameras” or generic connected devices. While not all cameras will appear, this step helps identify potential surveillance equipment in connected environments.
Report anything unusual immediately If something feels off—like a misplaced gadget, visible wiring, or an unexplained blinking light—notify hotel management right away. Request a room change or refund, and avoid touching suspicious devices. In serious cases, take photographs as evidence and contact local authorities to file a report.
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