First, find the WiFi router in your Airbnb unit.
Then, simply turn it off, either by unplugging it or using the power button.
Wait and see if you hear anything from your Airbnb host. If they contact you asking why the WiFi was turned off, they were monitoring the unit using some internet-connected device. "If nothing comes back you're probably alright," according to Heid.
"This has happened to me," Heid said. "One time I unplugged the router and [the Airbnb host] texted me and said, 'Hey, can you see why the WiFi went out?' And I was like, 'Why?'"
next slide will load in 15 secondsSkip AdSkip AdIf you want to be especially cautious, you can also download an app that detects other devices on a WiFi network.
Apps like Fing let users check other wireless devices on a network.
Heid also recommends that Airbnb renters use a VPN, or a service that hides browsing data from the owner of a wireless network.
In some cases, hosts might have other reasons to monitor WiFi in the unit, like a home security system or internet-connected air conditioning. But turning off the WiFi is a good way to see if your hosts notice, and open the conversation.