Our devices such as smartphone, tablets, and laptops are typically equipped with webcams.
While we would normally notice when a camera is capturing video as there is an indicator light, there are still instances when hackers "trick users into installing webcam spyware." This spyware disables the light activity, as per Lifewire.
When this happened, the webcam still managed to capture videos even when the activity light is off.
Therefore, you need to protect yourself from hackers. In this article, we will explore the different ways on how you can secure your webcam from hackers.
1. Cover Your Webcam
Sometimes we don't have to look for really complicated solutions as the simple one is already the best. If you want to secure your webcam: cover it. There are webcam covers that you can buy in store. Simply get one and attach it to your webcam.
In case you want to improvise, you can simply put some electrical tape over your webcam. If you want to avoid having tape residue on the camera, Lifewire's solution is to "get a longer strip of tape and fold it back on itself."
Interestingly, no hacker can watch you if your webcam is covered. This solution is so simple yet so effective.
2. Install an Anti-malware software
Surely your smartphones, laptop, or tablet has built-in webcam. If this is the case, make sure you have a good computer security software installed. Make sure it has an antivirus, an anti-spyware, a firewall, and other tools to keep the hackers away. It is also important to ensure that your security software is up to date.
You should also be cautious on clicking on suspicious links in an email, or text, since some materials that can be downloaded online are carrying a hidden payload, as per USA Today.
Read Also: Top 5 Best Webcam Apps in Linux To Try Out This 2022
3. Use a Firewall to Lock Down Your Network
According to Norton, a firewall is important as it is a network security system. It monitors traffic to and from your network, and as it performs that function, it provides a wall of defense. A firewall can keep your webcam safe from hackers.
The firewall in your computer will prevent unauthorized access to your computer, as per Norton. But be reminded that the firewalls need to be turned on. You may want to check if your firewall is turned on, if it is not, enable it now.
4. Disable Your Webcam
To make sure that your webcam is safe from hackers, you might consider disabling it if you're not going to use it for a long time. Since the malware won't probably re-enable it, disabling your webcam would stop most methods of gaining access to it.
Simple use the Windows Device Manager, as it has a list of every piece of hardware connected to your computer. You would typically find webcams under Cameras. Once you found it, simply right-click it, and select Disable device.
5. Avoid All Suspicious Links
Hackers can gain access of your webcam by "tricking you into installing malware," according to Norton. To avoid being tricked by hacker, never click on suspicious links or download files, particularly if they are from people you don't know.
How can you avoid being tricked? Be sure to only download attachments from sources you trust. Moreover, only click links sent by people you trust. However, if you found something suspicious, verify if it's legitimate.
Related Article: How to Tell if Your Webcam Has Been Hacked
