While the indicator light can alert you to a webcam hack, it’s not always reliable. There are some advanced attacks that can take over your laptop’s camera without the light even blinking.
In theory, the indicator light should be hardwired to turn on when the camera starts recording. However, whether or not the light switches on really comes down to the device’s firmware. And unfortunately, firmware can be overridden. Researchers proved it back in 2013, when they managed to hack a MacBook camera without the LED light ever coming on.
Figuring out if your camera is being tampered with is more difficult than you might expect. But there are ways to secure your computer even when you’re not sure if the webcam is hacked. Check out our tips for combating webcam bugging.
How to avoid computer camera spying
#1: Enable firewall
A firewall protects your system by monitoring the network traffic and blocking suspicious connections. Make sure your computer’s inbuilt firewall is up and running.
To access firewall settings on Windows, go to Control Panel > System and Security > Windows Defender Firewall > Turn Windows Firewall On or Off.
On macOS, head to System Preferences > Security & Privacy > Firewall.
#2: Use a reliable antivirus
Choose one with advanced protection against malware, spyware, and viruses. An antivirus program will take care of detecting and busting malicious threats before they do any harm.
#3: Don’t fall into a phishing trap
Hackers may disguise themselves as support agents and contact you saying there’s an issue with your system/computer/program and they have to take care of it. Don’t believe them. It’s a common phishing technique cybercriminals use to slip remote-access software into your device. Such software then allows them to access your camera and manage its permissions.
Another way to lure victims into downloading RAT software is through phishing emails that hide spoofed URLs and malicious files. Treat emails from unknown senders with caution and don’t click on suspicious links or download fishy attachments.
#4: Stay secure on public Wi-Fi
Public Wi-Fi networks are extremely vulnerable to hacking. Cybercriminals often target people at free hotspots and try to slip malware into their devices. Always use a VPN to secure your Wi-Fi connection and protect yourself from unwanted snoopers.
NordVPN has military-grade encryption and advanced security features. It not only makes your Internet traffic private but also shields you from cyber threats, including malware.
#5: Cover your webcam
Tape it. Yes, that’s right. Even Mark Zuckerberg does it. It’s the easiest and 100% reliable way to prevent someone from watching you through your computer camera. If you feel like the tape is not classy enough, many retailers are now offering covers that attach to a webcam and slide to open or close.
#6: Question what hackers have on you
If you receive threatening messages saying that someone hacked your webcam, don’t take it as truth right away. It might be a social engineering attack. Without you having to download anything or click on any links – can they prove that they have webcam footage of you? Does their story make sense? Have you ever actually done what they say you did in front of your computer? These scammers don’t have the technical knowledge to hack you, but they know how to play with your emotions.
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