How to spot a spy camera in your holiday home - and what to do if you find one

Spy cameras can be tricky to spot - thankfully a simple household item can help keep you safe

Security experts have offered advice on how to spot hidden cameras in your holiday accommodation - and what to do if you find one. Despite being strictly banned inside holiday rentals, criminals have still managed to secretly film guests during their most private moments.

Bug-sweeping professionals at Bond Rees have said that, after alarming incidents of cameras concealed within clocks, light fixtures, or mirrors, offenders have become more sophisticated. The current trend sees advanced outdoor cameras positioned to overlook pools, jacuzzis, and hot tub areas - places where guests least expect surveillance, yet where intimate moments can be captured.

Aaron Bond, a private investigator at Bond Rees, commented: "Criminals are getting smarter. These devices are smaller, better camouflaged, and much harder to find than they used to be.

"If you're staying somewhere with a pool or jacuzzi, you need to be extra careful, as private moments may not be as private as you think."

He further explained: "Spy cameras used to be large, and would require a battery the size of a house brick to power the device, but modern-day devices can fit inside your hand, and they use AI to detect movement, so they only record when someone is near or in the property, so a large battery isn't needed either."

How to spot a hidden camera

Despite being illegal, hidden cameras are still utilised by criminals, reports Cornwall Live.

"Some of these cameras are no bigger than a golf ball and can be tucked into plant pots, solar lights, or even the edge of decking, so spotting them can be near impossible if you don't know what to look out for," said Aaron.

However, there is a common household item that can help ensure your safety while travelling.

If you're staying in a holiday rental and want to check for hidden cameras, conducting a simple flashlight test is the most effective initial step.

Aaron said: "Wait until it's dark, then grab a powerful torch, the brighter the better, and shine it carefully around the garden, hedges, and any areas near the pool or jacuzzi."

He continued, "If a camera is there, you'll usually see the lens glint back at you, even if the device is well hidden."

This method is successful because camera lenses are made of glass, which reflects light in a distinctive way compared to natural surroundings. In the event that you discover a hidden camera, it's crucial to handle the situation appropriately.

"Don't touch it," Aaron said.

"Take photos or a video to document what you've found, leave the property immediately, and call the police."

Aaron concludes with a warning: "You can't know if the device belongs to the owner, a neighbour, or a previous guest, and you shouldn't take any chances."