With the modern technology these days, you can never be assured that going online is safe. The idea that someone else is watching you while using your webcam is creepy but it is a possibility that you should be aware of. While you may not be the victim of webcam hackers, it is safer to know what security measures to take in order to protect your privacy. Here are some of the basic steps that you can take in order to use your webcam safely with the ability to prevent hackers from penetrating through your privacy.With the modern technology these days, you can never be assured that going online is safe. The idea that someone else is watching you while using your webcam is creepy but it is a possibility that you should be aware of. While you may not be the victim of webcam hackers, it is safer to know what security measures to take in order to protect your privacy. Here are some of the basic steps that you can take in order to use your webcam safely with the ability to prevent hackers from penetrating through your privacy.With the modern technology these days, you can never be assured that going online is safe. The idea that someone else is watching you while using your webcam is creepy but it is a possibility that you should be aware of. While you may not be the victim of webcam hackers, it is safer to know what security measures to take in order to protect your privacy. Here are some of the basic steps that you can take in order to use your webcam safely with the ability to prevent hackers from penetrating through your privacy.

Make sure to monitor for firmware updates

Your webcam manufacturer’s technology might be just as vulnerable as you are from online hackers. The problem lies when your manufacturer is unable to protect their technology which in effect also compromises the security features of their webcams and the privacy of the consumers who are using them. However, understanding this threat makes webcam manufacturers more adept in updating their security firmware and they usually release updates for their consumers to use. Make sure to be aware of these updates and take the time to upgrade your firmware with the latest firmware release regularly. This will ensure that your webcam security is more updated and competent to repel the possibilities of modern bugs, viruses and malware that are preying on your webcam.

Invest on third party webcam protection services

The security features of your webcam may just not be enough. You can actually strengthen your webcam security features better by paying for third party webcam security software. A paid security software service is usually reliable and uses modern software technology that is usually not available in any regular webcam security feature that is provided by your webcam brand. They offer more powerful features for added protection to your webcam security. Because this will usually cost an additional fee, this is an option that you might consider if you are not satisfied with your regular webcam security features and it is something you may find worth investing in.

Scan for malware regularly

Hackers usually use malware as a means of penetrating your computer and to invade your privacy. Whether you are using a webcam or not, malware is one of the regular security risks when you are using the internet. One way of preventing your computer from being infected with a malware is to clean your computer from it using anti-malware software. While you can find free anti-malware software available online, you can opt to buy one for better and more reliable security features for your computer and webcam. Conducting a regular malware scan as part of your computer maintenance routine will truly help you prevent making your privacy vulnerable to the prying eyes of online hackers.

Turn on your computer firewall

A firewall provides your computer security against unauthorized access of hackers. It is a hardware or software program that prevents viruses, malware and hackers from penetrating through your computer once it is connected to the internet. Some hackers with advanced skills can possibly bypass your computer firewall. However, turning your firewall on will provide you adequate protection against many common security breaches on your webcam. When your firewall is on, it scrutinizes the traffic that is flowing on your computer to ensure that it is legitimate and without any traces of malicious programs.

Unplug or cover your webcam

Not everyone uses their webcam while their computer is connected on the internet. If your webcam is not permanently fixed on your computer, it is always best to remove it when not in use. This is a prudent step that you can take in securing your webcam. Unlike laptops that have built-in camera, Windows desktop computers usually have removable webcams while Mac desktop computers also have built in webcams. On Windows desktops, you can simply unplug it from the computer when not in use. Otherwise, when your webcam is permanently installed in your computer your other recourse is to cover the webcam with a tape.

Use your common sense

Most malware and viruses can access your computer and webcam when you download programs and applications that you are not certain can be trusted. Some online hackers try to access the online user’s webcams and computer by sending viruses through email links. Make sure not to click on any link included in emails sent from individuals you don’t know.

Evaluate the security issues on your webcam model

One of the prudent means by which you can ensure that your webcam is free from security breach from online hackers is to know the security issues of the webcam model that you are planning to buy. Prior to making a purchase, you are in the best position to make a research about the security issues that may be present with it. Do not buy webcam models with known security loopholes as this will only serve as a gateway for malware and viruses that can give access to online hackers to peep through your webcam activities.

About the Author

Irina Webandyou is a technologist and marketing writer. She loves doing guest posting service for many websites. She loves writing about seo and business things.