Hyatt Hotels are using algorithmic Rest “smoking detectors” (twitter.com)

Article summary

A guest at a Hyatt hotel was charged a $500 smoking fee despite not smoking, and an investigation revealed that the hotel uses Rest Sensors, which detect smoking using a proprietary algorithm. The guest found multiple reviews from other guests who had experienced the same issue. The sensor's algorithm is not transparent, and it may be prone to false positives. The company markets itself as a way to 'unlock a new revenue stream' for hotels.

Main themes

• smoking detection
• hotel scams
• algorithmic flaws
• consumer protection
• revenue generation
• transparency and accountability

What commenters say

• The Rest Sensor system is likely a scam that takes advantage of hotels and guests, with a flawed algorithm that can be triggered by non-smoking activities.
• The use of such sensors is a form of theft, as hotels can charge guests without providing evidence of smoking.
• The lack of transparency in the algorithm makes it impossible to challenge false positives, and the system's errors reliably favor the institution that manages it.
• Some argue that the system could be legitimate if it were more transparent and accurate, but others believe it is inherently flawed and designed to generate revenue.
• The issue highlights the need for regulations and laws to protect consumers from false advertising and scams.
• The problem is not limited to Rest Sensors, as other companies and technologies may also be used to exploit guests and generate revenue.
• Some commenters suggest that a class-action lawsuit could be an effective way to challenge the system and hold the company accountable.
• Others argue that the responsibility lies with the hotels and their management, rather than the technology itself.