Webcam shutter: paranoia or necessity

Usually people are divided into two camps: those who seal the camera and those who do not. Which one is right and why? First, let’s understand the concepts. Webcam shutters are an overlay that blocks your device’s camera, preventing it from being hacked. These protective “covers” are designed not only for a laptop, they can be used on smartphones and tablets! Leaving the camera unlocked on digital devices can expose you to unwanted surveillance by cybercriminals. Therefore, using a shutter is a good idea to protect your privacy from spying.

Webcam spies

Is it hard to hack a webcam? We are afraid that the answer may scare you. Judging by the number of videos on YouTube, even a schoolboy can take control of your camera. There are several types of “network peeps”. Some do it for fun and make themselves known to the victim, while others do it quietly and the person does not even suspect that he is being watched. Both scenarios are unpleasant and can be fraught with consequences.

Which type of webcam cover should I choose?

Inspired to close your webcam? Then let’s look at the pros and cons of all possible options.

Option #1: special webcam shutters

Pros. Compatible with all devices from smartphone to laptop. Slim and durable. Good looking. Easy to open and close.

Cons. More expensive than other options.

Option #2: self-adhesive stickers

Pros. Inexpensive and easy to find at home or in the office.

Cons. Not durable. They can fall off at the most inopportune moment. They don’t look very attractive. No functionality.

Option #3: Sticker

Pros . Inexpensive option. Easy to find. They look nice.

Cons. Low durability. Falls off easily. It is inconvenient to constantly peel off and stick.

Each of these options has its pros and cons. Still, self-adhesive stickers and stickers can be a good short-term solution until you find a better one.

Of course, this is the choice of everyone, but in this case, you need to understand the possible risks. Many of us still work from home, and a protective pad can keep you out of trouble. Remember, if you leave your camera uncovered, you may be vulnerable to surveillance and webcam attacks.

Risk #1: extortion. According to an article in Forbes magazine, some attacks on webcams may occur in order to obtain videos or images of people in compromising positions. For example, a cybercriminal filmed you changing clothes or getting out of the shower. He can then threaten to make these images public unless he is paid a certain amount.

Risk #2: Children may be at risk. A Wall Street Journal journalist asked an ethical hacker to hack into her webcams. She was shocked when, after a while, he sent her a photograph of the child. Leaving your webcam uncovered may compromise the privacy of those around you, including your loved ones.

Risk #3: Security issues. Zoom has experienced its fair share of security issues. Some users have been cyber-attacked through the app. As work from home becomes the new normal, having a webcam shutter is more important than ever!

Risk #4: Unknown risks. Whether you work at home, in the office, or on the road, an uncovered camera can pose a privacy risk. How? Let’s remember how many times you took your smartphone with you to the toilet or bath. After all, you would not want hackers to get your image under such conditions. Because to maintain peace of mind, you know what to do.

Still in doubt?

• Safety experts recommend and show by example that this is a must! The FBI often advises to cover the webcam. Even Mark Zuckerberg has been seen covering his laptop’s webcam, and some gadget makers are immediately selling a solution with a built-in overlay. Do you think it’s just that?
• Putting on a curtain is a simple step that will help keep your privacy. It is better to be safe than to be exposed to potential cyberattacks.
• Webcam shutters are very easy to use. Installation will take no more than a couple of seconds, and you can open and close the cover with a simple movement of your hand.

To find out if you need to tape the camera and microphone in your laptop, watch the episode of our cybersecurity show “Peppy Hacker”.

Blank for laptop camera in Achinsk: 704-products: free shipping, 75% off [click here]

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