Webcam Hacking

How to Tell if your Laptop Camera is Hacked

If you’re constantly video chatting with friends and using Microsoft Teams for work calls, your webcam is getting a fair amount of use. But if you get the feeling that you’re being watched when your camera isn’t live, you may want to listen to your gut; webcam hacking is a real possibility.

Here’s how to tell if your camera has been compromised:

• Indicator light.
  Most laptop and desktop cameras have a light that indicates when the camera is in use. If that light is flickering or acting strangely, take it as a sign that something isn’t right. Before you get too nervous, make sure that no background apps are trying to access your camera. But if the light is on for seemingly no reason, you should get it checked out.
• New files.
  Most webcams will store new audio and video captures in a folder on your computer. Check this folder for any new additions that you don’t remember making yourself.
• Scan for malware.
  Use an antivirus and malware defense program, like Microsoft Defender, to scan your computer for applications that could be causing you harm.
• Security settings.
  If you suspect that someone has hacked your camera, check out your camera’s settings. If you find it difficult to change settings, or if the firewall has been disabled, your device may be compromised.

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How to Strengthen your Webcam Security

There are a few steps that you can take to keep your computer’s camera from being hacked and bring you peace of mind.

• Update your software.
  A hacker can exploit weaknesses in devices that use out-of-date software. Make sure that your computer’s operating system and antivirus programs are consistently updated. Not only will this make your device run more smoothly, but it’s your first line of defense against those with unadmirable intents.
• Always use a firewall.
  A firewall acts like a gatekeeper, monitoring traffic in and out of your network and blocking suspicious connections. Keep your firewall enabled to help keep criminals from breaking into your computer or network.
• Use strong passwords.
  If someone guesses your passwords, they can access all kinds of personal information about you. Make sure your passwords are difficult to guess and don’t contain information like your phone number or birthday. Avoid using the word “password” as an access code.
• Beware of phishing.
  A common social engineering scam is phishing, where a scammer sends an email that encourages the recipient to click a link. The email may indicate that the reader has won a prize or needs to act quickly. When the link is clicked, malware or viruses can access a computer. Be wary of these kinds of emails; not only can they allow someone to hack your webcam, but they can also lead to identity theft.
• Be Careful on public WiFi.
  While it can be convenient to use the internet at a coffee shop, hotel, or convention center, take care while using these unsecured networks. Because they are not password protected and typically do not use firewalls, it can be easy targets for criminals. When using public or unsecured WiFi, use a VPN to keep your information secure.
• Cover your camera.
  This solution might seem too easy or low-tech, but if you’re truly concerned about being spied on through your computer’s camera, cover it. A piece of tape will certainly do the trick, but if you’d like something a little more aesthetically pleasing, you can buy a cover that suits your tastes and flips open and shut as needed.

While the Internet is an amazing tool, you should still take steps to keep yourself and your family safe.