Domestic helper in S’pore asks if her employer is allowed to install a CCTV in her bedroom

Domestic helper has privacy concerns after employer installs CCTV in her bedroom

A domestic helper in Singapore has raised questions about privacy after asking if her employer is allowed to install a CCTV camera in her bedroom.

Employer allegedly installs CCTV in helper’s bedroom

The helper posted her question in the Complaint Singapore Facebook group on 3 Oct, saying she was “just curious to know” if this was allowed.

The Original Poster (OP) explained that the room was “too small” and shared by two people.

“Can my employer put CCTV in my bedroom?” the OP asked in the Facebook post.

“Anyone can help me know about this rule,” she added, seeking advice on the rules governing surveillance cameras in domestic workers’ accommodation.

“Don’t I have any privacy inside my bedroom?” she asked at the end of the post.

Most netizens say it’s not allowed

The post has since attracted the attention of netizens, with most of them agreeing that this was an invasion of privacy.

A netizen said that “it’s against the law” and urged the OP to report the incident to the Ministry of Manpower (MOM).

A Facebook user also stated that it is only allowed if the CCTV camera is outside the bedroom.

A commenter also said it was a “big No!!!” unless the helper was sleeping with an elderly or a baby in the same room.

Another netizen agreed with the exception, adding that employers should also inform their helpers about the presence of CCTV cameras.

Employers must inform domestic workers about video recording devices

According to the Ministry of Manpower (MOM), employers who install video recording devices in their homes must inform their migrant domestic workers of the presence and location of the devices.

The guidelines also state that employers must not install video recording devices in areas that would compromise a domestic worker’s privacy or modesty.

These include areas where she sleeps, changes clothes or uses the bathroom.

MOM also says employers should provide their domestic workers with adequate space and privacy for their accommodation.

A separate room should also be provided where possible.

If that is not possible, the accommodation must still have adequate space and privacy.

MOM said in a May 2026 parliamentary reply that domestic workers with concerns about their privacy at home can seek advice and support through its Migrant Domestic Worker helpline.

They may also seek assistance from organisations such as the Centre for Domestic Employees and Brahm Centre.

Also read: S’pore domestic helper allegedly works almost 18 hours daily, must be home by 5pm on off days to do housework

Have news you must share? Get in touch with us via email at news@mustsharenews.com

Featured image adapted from Complaint Singapore on Facebook.