First, it was a growing number of reports that hidden cameras are being used to spy on hotel guests. And now a recent survey finds that the possibility of unauthorized surveillance increases the concern guests have for their in-room personal appearance, especially hair and makeup.
Hotel security specialist Bob Payne, who insists he has seldom installed hidden cameras in a hotel room himself, and then only for his own personal use, said the possibility of secret video recordings prompted more than 68 % of surveyed hotel guests to admit that they routinely put on a smile and give themselves at least a quick look in the mirror before getting close to an alarm clock, smoke detector, or any other device that hidden cameras might be concealed in.
The reason for the concern, according to Payne, is the assumption that most hidden camera footage will find its way to the Internet. And that raises fears among guests that being caught online in an unguarded moment could hurt their social media standing on such sites as Facebook, Instagram, and Ashley Madison.
“Who wants to have thousands of followers watch you spit toothpaste into a bowl, unless of course you hope to become an online influencer for that particular brand of toothpaste, such as Aquafresh, said Payne, adding that he is sometimes compensated for products he mentions online.
When not consulting about hidden cameras for some of the world’s most litigated-against hotel chains, Bob Payne is the editor in chief at BobCarrieson.com, a travel humor and satire site that has been sharing accurate travel news and advice since before Columbus landed at Plymouth Rock.
