There were recording devices found in guest rooms at the Hyatt Regency Minneapolis. They were discovered by students on a school trip. Police are investigating the cameras.

It’s unclear based on the ongoing investigation who placed the cameras there – a letter from the school to parents of children on the trip indicated that a staff member was placed on a ‘precautionary’ leave but there’s been no statement that the staff member placed the cameras, versus their having been in place and perhaps monitored by a hotel staff member or contractor.

The hotel says they “immediately contacted local authorities” when informed of the cameras and that they “conducted a thorough property-wide search for unauthorized recording devices; no additional devices have been found.”

Hyatt Regency Minneapolis, Credit: Hyatt

Last year I wrote about a woman suing Hilton for $100 million because an employee videotaped her in the shower and used the tape to blackmail her. There’s even been a subscription website where people paid to watch hotel guests being spied on in their rooms. Airbnb has a problem with hidden cameras in homes placed there by owners, too. Here’s how to check if you’re being surreptitiously taped.

Of course in Japan you can rent a room where you’re only charged $1 because they actually adverise that you’ll be livestreamed on YouTube.

I believe major chain hotels – as a brand standard – should conduct regular sweeps to ensure guest privacy.

(HT: Reid F.)