Webcam Tips and Tricks for Ultimate Privacy & Security
The following are some of the best Webcam tips and tricks for ultimate privacy. You don’t have to follow all the steps, just the ones you think are reasonable. Let us talk about each of them.
1] Keep your computer up-to-date
If you are someone who doesn’t update their computer from time to time, there is a high chance that your computer is vulnerable to threats because, with updates, you are also installing security patches deployed by Microsoft developers. So, if you are concerned about your privacy, go ahead and check for updates. If you are on Windows 11, open Settings, and then go to Windows Update. Windows 10 users need to go to Settings > Update & Security to update their respective Operating Systems. If there is an update available, install it and keep checking Settings to make sure that no update goes unnoticed. Read: How do I stop Chrome, Edge or Firefox from accessing my Webcam
2] Make sure that a security program is enabled
You need to make sure that you have installed and enabled a security program. Windows users have the luxury of having a built-in security program, called Windows Defender. The Defender Firewall is capable enough to ensure your webcam privacy. If you want to check whether the Defender Firewall is enabled or not, follow the prescribed steps. If the toggle is already enabled, there is nothing to worry about as you have already added a layer of security to your computer.
3] Disable the Camera when not in use
If you are not using a camera, then there is no harm in keeping the webcam disabled. If you are on Windows 11 or 10, all you have to do is, go to Settings > Privacy & Security (Privacy for Windows 10) > Camera and then disable the toggle of Camera access. You can also do the same from Device Manager, hit Win + X and select Device Manager, then expand Camera, right-click on the integrated Camera and select Disable device.
4] Add a physical cover to your camera or unplug the external webcam
Disabling the webcam is an option most of us can’t rely upon. There are instances reported by users when even though the webcam was disabled and not in use, the hacker still managed to get their footage. So, if you want to go above and beyond, then adding tape or a cover to your camera is not a bad option. Also, if you are in the market looking for a new laptop, then it is worth buying something with a shutter or a camera that retracts inside the device covering its peripherals. If you are someone who uses an external webcam, then remove or unplug it when not in use. In case, you are using a Bluetooth webcam, disconnect it when not in use. This may seem like a hassle to someone who constantly uses a webcam, but can be really useful if you like privacy.
5] Avoid clicking on an unknown link or talking to a complete stranger
It might seem quite obvious but is oblivious to some, you should never click on an unknown link, not just because of webcam privacy but also to ensure privacy in general. If you click on a malicious link, all your information will be sent to the hacker and can be used to hijack your system. Also, if you talk to a stranger, there is a slight chance that you will be tricked into leaking all your important details. So, as a general rule of thumb, do not talk to a complete stranger or click on a link that you have no clue about. TIP: LMT Anti Logger will help you Block key logger, screen logger, clipboard logger and webcam logger
6] Enable VPN
Last not least, we would recommend you add a VPN to your computer. VPN or Virtual Private Network creates a tunnel between the client, that’s you, and the server, the site that you are trying to access. So, your data will not be exposed to the hacker. This is especially useful when you are connected to a Public WiFi, however, even when you are connected to your home WiFi, the data goes through the ISP, which is public, so, adding a VPN is recommended. You should first get a free VPN and if you like it, get its paid subscription. Read: How to know which app is using Mic, Location, Camera on Windows 11
Can someone access your webcam without you knowing?
Unless a hacker hijacks your computer, no one can access your webcam without your knowledge. If you don’t want your webcam to be hacked, follow the tips mentioned in this post. Some of the suggestions will help you maintain webcam privacy from some of the malicious apps. This post will show you how to keep Hackers out of your computer. Read: How to avoid being watched through your own Computer?.
Should the Webcam be above or below you?
It is always recommended to keep the lens of the camera at or above eye level, also, it should not be higher than your hairline. This can improve the video quality leaps and bond. On top of that, if you use an external webcam, make sure that it is at least a 1080p one because, in this day and age, a 720p webcam looks awful.
