Sources and Reasons:
1). The leading halachic authorities of recent generations disagree as to whether one may rely on cameras that are being monitored, considering this comparable to an open doorway to the public domain, as explained in the Gemara and Shulchan Aruch (Even HaEzer, siman 22), where it is permitted. Rabbi Zalman Nechemiah Goldberg zt”l likewise ruled leniently, and his words were cited in Kovetz Pa’amei Yaakov (76–77). This was also the view of Rabbi Y. M. Stern in his sefer Imrei Yaakov (Even HaEzer 22, Likuttim, se’if katan 31). See also Kovetz Moriah (issue 366, p. 148) regarding what Rabbi Yosef Shalom Elyashiv permitted under certain circumstances.
However, the sefer Chut Shani (Inyanim Shonim, p. 204) cites a letter from the gaon, author of Shevet HaLevi, as well as a letter from Rabbi Nissim Karelitz zt”l, that one may not rely on a camera to prevent an issur of yichud. This stringent position was likewise taken in Shu”t Meshiv Nevonavim, vol. 4 (Even HaEzer, siman 53), Shu”t Chayei HaLevi, vol. 6 (siman 116), and others.
2). It further appears that even according to those who permit it, this is only where everything occurring in the room can be viewed. However, if there are places in which what occurs in the room cannot be seen, it should not be permitted. Rabbi Shlomo Zalman Auerbach wrote similarly in Shu”t Minchat Shlomo, vol. 1, concerning an open doorway to the public domain: when it is not possible to see everything occurring in the room through the doorway, there is no leniency even if the doorway is open. This was likewise written in Ezer Mikodesh (siman 22), and the same applies here.
Furthermore, those monitoring the cameras are often people who are distant from Torah observance. If so, this raises an additional dispute as to whether a prutz is effective for the leniency of an open doorway to the public domain.
3). In addition, escape rooms often lead to physical contact, especially at frightening moments, and there is much more to discuss.
This response was translated automatically from Hebrew and has not yet been reviewed by a person. Therefore, it may contain inaccuracies and should not be considered a definitive reference.
