looking through camera

Deter Hackers Looking Through Camera

The idea of a hacker invading your privacy via looking through camera might sound like a cliche Hollywood plot. However, it is a very real threat that can victimize anyone that owns a gadget with a camera. This is also called “camfecting”. 

How To Detect If Hackers Are Looking Through Camera 

Webcam hackers hijack webcams by slipping remote-control malware into your laptop. Moreover, this malware gives hackers access to your personal files, browsing history, and messages. Fortunately, it’s easy to spot the warning signs and deter the attempts of hackers looking through camera

Check the indicator light 

If your webcam’s light is on or acting strange even though you haven’t used the webcam yet, it’s a sign that something might be wrong. However, don’t panic just yet. 

One possible reason why this happens is another browser extension or program running in the background and using your webcam. Read on to see other steps. 

Check browser extensions

As mentioned, a potential reason is a browser extension. Restart your computer and launch your browser. If the indicator light of your webcam turns on at the moment you launch the browser, chances are the problem is in a browser extension. 

Yet, how can you find out which extension is exactly the culprit? Deactivate them one at a time. 

Check apps

Applications could be another reason why your webcam light flashes. Launch an application and see if the webcam indicator lights up. Continue to open apps one by one until you spot the one that secretly uses the webcam. 

However, this could be a tedious task if you have a lot of applications installed. For Windows, try using the Process Explorer Tool. If you are a macOS user, go to Terminal and enter specific commands. This tutorial teaches you how to do so. 

But what if your webcam’s light turns on a few seconds after you reboot your computer – without launching any applications? Chances are you’ve been hacked. However, don’t panic just yet and check out other options. 

Try running the webcam

Close all the programs and apps. Afterward, open your computer’s default camera app. If it displays an error message stating that your camera is already in use, there could be two reasons behind this. First, hackers have gained access to your camera. Second, there’s an app running in the background (refer to step 1). 

Run a malware scan

If it turns out that there’s really something strange with your camera, run a malware scan immediately. Move the file to quarantine if it finds anything. Moreover, speak to a tech professional if a malware scan doesn’t solve the problem or if you still have suspicions. 

Avoid Computer Camera Spying 

Indeed, the indicator light may alert you to a webcam hack. However, it’s not always reliable. Take these precautionary measures to secure your computer. 

  • Enable firewall
  • Use a reliable antivirus
  • Don’t fall into a phishing trap
  • Cover your webcam
  • Stay secure on public Wi-Fi
  • Question what hackers have on you

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