Security is something that must always be present among users. There are many attacks that can compromise our teams. When we talk about privacy, the same. Therefore, we always recommend keeping systems safe, using tools that protect us and, most importantly, common sense. In this article we are going to focus on the webcam . Let’s explain why it is now more important than ever to maintain security.
Maintaining security on the webcam is vital
Most laptops have a webcam. Also many desktops. Now, keep in mind that this device can be used by hackers to attack. We have seen on many occasions attacks that use the webcam to spy on the victim.
Certain varieties of malware can maliciously configure a computer’s webcam. Logically this puts privacy and security at risk. However, experts warn that this is increasing lately. We live in an age in which teleworking is becoming the daily life of many users. Many of them, in addition, make use of the webcam (either integrated into the team or one that they have added) to be in contact with coworkers.
What happen? Hackers generally set their sights on what is hosting the most user, what is most popular and used. We are facing a major problem, since web cameras are now being attacked more than before. Therefore we must take extreme precautions.
Cyber criminals can access applications like Skype or Zoom , to name a few popular ones, and in this way manipulate the webcam. They could obtain images without permission and without the victim knowing. They can take advantage of possible vulnerabilities in these applications or on the device itself.
A very frequent way to attack these types of devices is through Trojans . In this way they could control the camera, access files and information. They can also use brute force to break the security of some webcams.
How to improve webcam security
Something fundamental is to always use official and safe programs . This means that we will have to download Skype, Zoom or the tool we use from reliable sources. Avoid third-party sites where we could be downloading software that has been maliciously modified.
We must also always have the latest versions of both the programs we use and the system itself. Sometimes vulnerabilities can arise which are exploited by hackers to carry out their attacks. It is the developers themselves who release patches and updates to correct these bugs and we must install them.
Security tools are essential in these cases. A good antivirus can prevent the entry of malware that puts our security at risk.
On the other hand, something that many users overlook is the importance of changing the factory settings and password . It is vital to use passwords that are secure, that contain letters (upper and lower case), numbers and other special symbols.
But surely what cannot be missing is common sense . Many types of attacks will require our interaction. For example, download a malicious file that reaches us by email or access a link that is false.