Webcams, privacy and security

If your computer has a webcam, you could be being photographed without even knowing it! Watch for the light to come on. This is an issue that threatens everyone's privacy who goes online and/or works offline. On a laptop, the webcam is usually on the inside lid, top center. On desk models, the location can vary. It is usually marked as a webcam. So, what can we do about this problem?

A simple solution is to place a strip of black electrical tape over the webcam lens. If you carry your laptop around the house, you may not notice that your webcam is on! Dread to imagine if you carry it into the bathroom with you! 'Next thing you may find online are pics of yourself on the toilet or undressing to shower! If your computer is just sitting on the table or desk unattended, that webcam could come on or already be on. This can apply to offline as well as online. Another suggestion is to close the laptop or turn off the desk computer when not attended.

Internet security systems are another area that should be taken seriously. The free ones, well, they usually do not offer a firewall, the real-time scanning and scheduled scans, email protection, and other perks of a paid account. It is relatively fairly priced to go ahead and get a paid-for security system. It is recommended is highly recommended to use a repiutable system. In my personal experience, it really is worth that much and more to guard your computer and thus your privacy. While no system can guarantee 100% safety, why risk it by "settling for" a free system with just the minimal protection? I am all about saving money, but this is an area that should not be skimped on. Please pay attention to your webcam, and purchase a good security system.

*I receive no compensation or endorsement for these opinions. I am not a computer professional*

Image: nacu|Morguefile

Prim blessings to you all, Danice G.