What you're actually looking for

A hidden camera is a recording device deliberately concealed in everyday objects — smoke detectors, phone chargers, picture frames, clocks, or even pens. Most are small enough to fit in your hand. Some transmit video to a phone or computer in real time; others store footage on a memory card inside. The goal is to record people without their knowledge, usually in private spaces like bedrooms or bathrooms.

Finding one requires checking the physical spaces where cameras would be most useful to an intruder: anywhere you undress, bathe, or sleep. You're looking for small lenses (often the size of a pinhead), unusual objects that don't belong, or devices plugged into power that serve no obvious purpose.

Key Takeaways

  • Hidden cameras are typically placed in bedrooms, bathrooms, or hotel rooms where people undress, so start your search in those spaces first.
  • Look for small dark circles (the lens), objects that seem out of place or newly installed, and devices plugged in that don't match the room's purpose.
  • Use your phone's camera to scan for infrared lights, which many hidden cameras emit but human eyes cannot see.
  • If you find something suspicious, photograph it, do not touch it, and contact local police rather than removing it yourself.

Scan the room with your phone camera for infrared light

Most hidden cameras emit infrared light to record in darkness. Your phone's camera sensor can detect this light even though your eyes cannot. Open your phone's camera app, switch to selfie mode (so you're looking at the camera lens), and slowly sweep the room in low light or darkness. Any infrared LEDs will show up as bright white or purple dots on your screen.

This method works best in a dark room. Close the curtains or turn off the lights, then scan slowly across shelves, corners, and anywhere a camera might be pointed at a bed or bathroom. Pay special attention to smoke detectors, air purifiers, clocks, and any device with a small dark circle on its surface. If you see a bright spot that isn't a normal light source, photograph its location and move closer to identify what object it's coming from.

Check common hiding spots in bedrooms and bathrooms

Hidden cameras are placed where they capture the most sensitive footage. In bedrooms, look at the nightstand, dresser, bookshelf, and anywhere with a view of the bed. In bathrooms, check above the toilet, inside or above the shower, and on shelves at eye level. Hotel rooms are common targets, so inspect the same areas plus the desk, TV stand, and any decorative items on walls.

Look for objects that seem out of place, newly installed, or don't match the room's style. A smoke detector in a bedroom where there's no fire alarm system elsewhere is suspicious. A USB charger, clock, or picture frame that wasn't there before warrants a closer look. Gently move items and check behind them. Look for small dark circles or pinhole-sized openings that could be a lens. If an object feels heavier than it should or has an unusual weight distribution, it may contain a camera and battery.

Inspect objects for small lenses and wiring

A hidden camera lens is typically a small dark circle, often 2 to 5 millimeters across. It may be slightly raised or flush with the surface. Examine smoke detectors, clocks, picture frames, USB chargers, and any object with a dark spot. Use a flashlight and look at the spot from different angles — a real lens will reflect light differently than a printed dot or decoration.

If you can safely open an object without damaging it, look inside for a circuit board, battery, or memory card. Cameras need power, so look for batteries, USB cables, or wires running to a power outlet. A USB charger that's plugged in but doesn't charge your phone, or a clock that doesn't keep time, may be a disguised camera. Do not disassemble anything; if you suspect an object contains a camera, photograph it and contact police.

Look for unusual wireless devices and power sources

Hidden cameras that transmit video wirelessly need a power source. Look for USB chargers, power adapters, or cables plugged into outlets that don't match any device you recognize. Some cameras are powered by batteries hidden inside everyday objects, so check for objects that are unusually heavy or have a battery compartment you don't remember opening.

If the camera transmits video, it needs a wireless connection. Some older models broadcast on their own frequency, which you might detect with a radio frequency detector (a specialized tool available online, though not essential for a basic search). Most modern hidden cameras connect to Wi-Fi. Check your router's connected devices list — if you see an unfamiliar device name or a device you don't recognize, note it and contact police. Your internet provider or router manual can show you how to view connected devices.

What to do if you find something suspicious

Do not touch, move, or remove the object. Do not attempt to disable it or cover the lens. Photograph the object in place, including its location in the room and any visible details like brand names or model numbers. Note the exact time and date you found it.

Contact your local police department's non-emergency line and report what you found. Describe the object, where it was located, and how long it's been there if you know. If you're in a hotel, tell the front desk immediately and ask them to contact police. Do not leave the room unattended if possible. Police will document the discovery and may collect the device as evidence. In some cases, they can trace the camera to whoever installed it.

When to search a hotel room or rental property

Search a hotel room within the first few minutes of arrival, before you undress or use the bathroom. Check the same spots: nightstand, dresser, bathroom shelves, and any object with a view of the bed or shower. Many travelers do a quick infrared scan with their phone camera as a routine precaution.

For rental properties (Airbnb, VRBO, or short-term rentals), the same approach applies. Search before settling in. If you find something, photograph it and contact the platform's support team in addition to police. Document everything — the object, its location, the date and time — because you may need this information for a report or to dispute charges on your account.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a regular flashlight to find hidden cameras?

A regular flashlight helps you see into dark corners and behind objects, but it won't detect infrared light the way your phone camera does. Use both: a flashlight to inspect objects closely, and your phone camera in infrared mode to scan for LEDs you can't see with your eyes.

What if I find a camera in a rental property?

Photograph it without touching it, contact local police, and report it to the rental platform immediately. Include photos and the exact location in your report. Do not stay in the property if you feel unsafe. Most platforms have policies against hidden cameras and will remove the listing.

Do all hidden cameras have infrared lights?

Most do, but not all. Some cameras record only in daylight or use ambient light. If the infrared scan finds nothing, continue with a physical search of common hiding spots. If you remain concerned, contact police for guidance.

Is it legal to search for hidden cameras in a rental property I'm staying in?

Yes. You have a reasonable expectation of privacy in a bedroom or bathroom, even in a rental. Searching for hidden cameras is not illegal. If you find one, report it to police and the property owner or platform.

What should I do if I suspect a camera but can't find it?

If you feel unsafe or strongly suspect surveillance, contact local police and describe your concerns. They can advise you on next steps. In the meantime, use the bathroom with the door locked and curtains closed, and consider staying elsewhere if possible.