8 Ways to Detect Hidden Cameras at a Glance:
- Do a visual inspection and check for pinholes, unusual devices or misplaced objects.
- Run a Wi-Fi or Bluetooth scan and look for suspicious device names on the network.
- Try a smartphone infrared (IR) scan by using your phone camera to spot IR lights.
- Do a flashlight test and shine a light to reveal hidden lens reflections.
- Use RF detectors to find wireless signals coming from hidden devices.
- Try lens finders with LED or laser lights to highlight hidden lenses.
- Do a hidden network search and scan for strange Wi-Fi hotspots nearby.
- Listen closely for faint hums, clicks or buzzing from hidden devices.
Being watched without your consent is scary, and with the hidden camera market already worth $1.97 billion in 2024 and expected to more than triple by 2031, the fear is no longer far-fetched.
That fancy Airbnb you booked with excitement, that hotel you always wanted to stay at or even a friend’s house, hidden cameras can be anywhere. But how to detect a hidden camera before your privacy is compromised?
There are many ways to spot a hidden camera — from simply looking around the room to using your phone, a flashlight or specialized detection tools. Let’s explore eight methods to identify these devices step by step, so you know exactly what to do.
1. Visual Inspection
Do a slow, methodical sweep of the room. Smart cameras can be disguised as:
- Vents
- Lamps
- Clocks
- Tiny pinholes
- Power outlets
- Picture frames
- Out-of-place screws
- New or moved smoke detectors
Check mirrors with the fingertip “shine” test and inspect objects at eye level and higher — lenses like to hide in plain sight. If you want to speed up this process, consider using a handheld hidden camera finder. Below, we’ll provide more details on exactly where to look.
2. Check for Suspicious Devices Connected to the Wi-Fi Network or Bluetooth
Open the router app or your phone’s network list to scan for connected devices. Unfamiliar names like “IPCa,” “Wireless Camera,” or oddly labeled devices can be a red flag, especially if there are extra smart cameras, baby monitors or equipment you don’t recognize.
That said, some spy cams are standalone and won’t appear on networks, so a physical check is still required. Do a thorough check of your guest Wi-Fi as well.
3. Use Your Smartphone Camera as an Infrared Scanner
Turn off the lights, open your phone’s camera and slowly pan the room while watching the screen for bright red or purple dots — those are IR LEDs used by night-vision cameras.
This is a quick and easy way to see hidden IR emitters and detect hidden cameras with your phone. If you want to be more thorough, you can also use a dedicated infrared scanner device.
4. Use a Flashlight
In a dark room, shine a bright flashlight at shallow angles across surfaces and objects. Camera lenses will catch the light and return tiny, sharp reflections that normal materials usually don’t. Move the light slowly, and look for small glints on clocks, decor, vents and electronics.
5. Use RF Detectors
A radio frequency (RF) detector can pick up wireless signals emitted by cameras, bugs or trackers. Simply turn it on and slowly walk around the room.
If the RF detector spikes near an outlet, smoke detector or gadget, investigate further. This tool is especially handy for spotting cameras concealed in everyday devices like smart TVs or wearables.
6. Use Hidden Camera Lens Finders
Lens finders are small, handheld tools designed to reveal camera lenses. LED-based lens finders use flashing red lights that you look through to spot reflections, while laser-based models scan more aggressively for hidden lenses.
Both types make it easier to confirm what your eyes might miss — they’re perfect if you want a reliable tool for detecting hidden cameras with an iPhone or any other device.
7. Search for Hidden Networks
Some hidden cameras operate using their own Wi-Fi hotspots. Use your phone or laptop to scan for nearby networks.
Look for strange names, especially those that aren’t tied to your router or location. Just as someone could hack headphones or other connected gadgets, attackers may set up small networks to stream video discreetly.
8. Listen for Unusual Sounds
Hidden cameras are often tiny, but many still give themselves away with faint hums, clicks or buzzes. Sit quietly, switch off loud devices and listen closely around outlets, vents or furniture. For extra precision, you can even use your smartphone microphone to amplify low-level sounds you might otherwise miss.
Where to Check for Hidden Cameras
Hidden cameras are usually placed where people most expect privacy, such as bathrooms, bedrooms and living areas. These devices are often disguised as everyday items to blend in with the surroundings. When inspecting a room, don’t just check the obvious.
Look closely at anything electronic, decorative or oddly positioned, such as:
- Vents, air purifiers or other appliances
- Lamps, nightlights or fragrance plugins
- Plants, decorative objects or wall hangings
- Power outlets, extension cords or chargers
- Smoke detectors, fire alarms and ceiling lights
- Clocks, picture frames, mirrors or stuffed animals
- Smart electronics like TVs, baby monitors and wearables
What to Do if You Find a Hidden Camera
If you discover a suspicious device — say, a smoke detector with loose wires when there’s no system installed — don’t panic.
Here’s what you should do:
- Document it by taking photos or videos from different angles. This gives you evidence to present later.
- Cover the device with a piece of clothing or a towel — or unplug it if possible — to prevent it from recording.
If you’re in an Airbnb, Vrbo or hotel:
- Report it immediately to the host or management.
- Most platforms take these reports seriously and will investigate, but provide photo or video proof to strengthen your case.
- Ask for relocation or a refund if you don’t feel safe staying there.
For stronger action, contact local authorities. In many places, recording someone without consent — especially in private spaces like bedrooms and bathrooms — is illegal. Your photos and notes can help law enforcement trace the source, confirm if it’s transmitting data and pursue charges if necessary.
Stay Vigilant and Protect Yourself With Panda Security
While hidden cameras are a valid concern, they aren’t the only privacy threat when you travel. Public Wi-Fi networks, infected charging stations and even compromised hotel smart TVs can expose your personal data to hackers. Keeping your devices safe is just as important as checking your room for surveillance.
Panda Dome antivirus provides real-time protection by blocking malware, spyware and other online threats before they reach your laptop, phone or tablet. Whether you’re connecting at an airport, logging in at a hotel or just browsing on the go, Panda keeps your information safe.
Stay one step ahead of hidden risks — protect your devices with Panda Security today.
Detecting Hidden Cameras FAQ
Here are some of the most common questions about hidden cameras, along with straightforward answers to help you stay safe.
Can I Use a Cell Phone to Detect a Hidden Camera?
Yes, your phone’s camera can help you spot infrared lights, and some apps can scan for unusual devices on Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. Both Android and iPhone users can use these tricks, but remember that not all cameras will be connected to a network, so physical inspections are still important.
Is It Legal for Someone to Watch Me With a Spy Cam?
In most countries, it’s illegal to record people without their consent in private spaces like bathrooms, bedrooms or hotel rooms. Businesses and hosts caught using hidden cameras can face criminal charges and civil lawsuits. Public areas have different rules, but your right to privacy in private spaces is protected almost everywhere.
What Is the Easiest Way to Find Hidden Cameras?
The simplest method is a visual inspection — look closely at common hiding spots like smoke detectors, outlets and picture frames. Pair that with the flashlight test or your smartphone’s camera to catch hidden lenses without needing special tools.
How Can You Tell if a Mirror Has a Hidden Camera?
Use the fingertip test: Press your finger against the mirror. If there’s no visible gap between your finger and its reflection, it could indicate a two-way mirror. You can also shine a flashlight or use your phone’s camera to look for small pinhole reflections, which could reveal a hidden lens behind the glass.
What Are Some Ways to Disable a Hidden Camera?
If you suspect a device is recording, cover it with tape or cloth, or unplug it if it’s connected to a power source. Don’t try to dismantle it yourself. Instead, take photos for documentation, report it to property management or authorities and let professionals handle the camera removal.
Can Hidden Cameras Work Without Wi-Fi?
Yes, many can record directly onto internal memory cards and don’t need Wi-Fi to function. That’s why relying only on network scans isn’t enough. Combining physical checks with tech tools is the best way to protect yourself.