Proxyrack shares 5 signs if a webcam has been hacked and someone could be watching

The experts at Proxyrack have revealed the warning signs of a hacked webcam and what to do if users find themselves in this position.

5 signs of a hacked webcam

• Webcam Indicator Light 

If the webcam light is on when users aren’t using the camera this could be a sign that someone is accessing it externally. The light isn’t always the indicator as it can be turned off via settings, so check settings to make sure the light is set to come on when the camera is in use. 

• Unfamiliar Programmes 

If users notice unfamiliar programmes on desktops or in files this could be a sign that the webcam has been hacked and someone is externally installing software onto the device to access the camera.

• Unusual Activity 

If the computer is working slower than usual or users are seeing unexpected pop-ups and documents in files, this could be a sign of a hacked webcam. The hacker may also be sending and receiving data from a webcam so check for any unexpected activity. 

• Battery Draining Faster Than Usual

If the battery is draining unexpectedly fast this could be a sign of external activity. Check battery usage in the task manager to see which applications are consuming the most power, this can indicate whether the camera is being used unexpectedly. 

• Unrecognised Browser Extensions 

Hackers can use browser extensions to access webcams, one indicator of this can be that when opening the browser webcam light turns on. Users should also check for any extensions that they haven’t installed, this could be a sign someone is accessing the computer externally. 

Spotting the warning signs

One feature of your device that can be slightly more difficult to identify when hacked is your camera or webcam"

Evan Fitzroy, Technical Specialist at Proxyrack has shared the following advice about what to do if you think your webcam has been hacked, “As the tech industry continues to grow, the dangers increase so knowing how to spot the warning signs of being hacked become more important.”

“One feature of your device that can be slightly more difficult to identify when hacked is your camera or webcam.” 

Indications

“One indication that your webcam has been hacked is the camera light, if this comes on when you start your computer or an application that wouldn’t usually require the camera, this could be a sign that someone is externally accessing your webcam.”

“However, it is important to note that the light can be set to not come on when the camera is in use so be sure to check your settings to ensure that it is set to come on so you know when it is in use.” 

Unusual pop-ups

If one of extensions is responsible for a possible hacking, open each until anything unexpected appears"

“Hackers can also infiltrate your webcam via browser extensions, so checking these regularly to see if any appear that you did not download yourself is important in checking whether a hacker has installed one to get access.”

“If you are worried that one of these extensions is responsible for a possible hacking, open each one until anything unexpected appears, such as the camera light or a pop-up, these can indicate that your camera is being hacked through that particular extension and you will want to uninstall it immediately.” 

Proxy installation

“The most important thing to monitor is any unusual activity that has begun appearing on your computer, for example, new programs or documents appearing unexpectedly and also any persistent pop-ups or warnings that might indicate external use of your device.” 

“To help reduce the risks of being hacked, installing a proxy can be a great option as it can create a safety net between your system and the internet, making it harder for hackers to access your software. Anti-viral software is also a good option for protecting your computer and data from hackers and computer viruses.”