Many people have already discovered the usefulness of webcams when it comes to keeping in touch with distant friends and relatives, or to host professional video conferences. Webcams can, however, be used for a wide variety of other purposes, like taking pictures, creating a private home surveillance system that can be monitored from a remote location, starting a video blog etc.
Unfortunately, technology has a dark side also. Some cybercriminals are taking advantage of this technology just for having fun. The most popular attacker activities involve searching for nude photos and spying via webcam. Such photos could then be published for their fun or they could become a base for blackmail.
The general procedure of webcam hacking is to find a security vulnerability (whether in the software that controls a webcam or the hardware itself) and take advantage of it in any way that doesn’t alert the victim to its use.
To avoid such problems, users should take extra precautions:
- Download applications only from trusted sources.
- Do not click on suspicious links in e-mails and social networks.
- Update your firmware occasionally.
- Cover or unplug your webcam when not using.
- Use firewalls and advanced webcam protection software.
- Perform routine malware scans.
It’s never a bad idea to be cautious and aware of what sorts of dangers are lurking out there.Stay safe..always!