Who's Watching You

Disclosure: I got this product as part of an advertorial.



I have a laptop I use for everything. I never once gave much thought to the webcam built in. I never use it, it is just there. When I got the offer to do this review, it opened my eyes up to loads of things I never knew. Sure I knew about hackers and how they try to get into your computer to steal information. However I never knew hackers would hack into your webcam to view your home and whoever is on the computer.

The Risks Of Webcams
Webcams may let you stay in touch with friends and family, but they also pose risks of people hacking into them and spying on you. A recent Pennsylvania lawsuit accused a school district of using webcams on school-issued laptops to spy on students and their families. And in China, a sophisticated network of hackers known as GhostNet has cracked 1,295 webcams in 103 countries. Since most laptops now come with a built-in webcam, it’s critical to understand the risks, says Richard Stiennon, a malware expert with IT-Harvest, a research firm that specializes in Internet security. “We all have to become aware that our every action could be watched,” says Stiennon.
How Hackers Attack Webcams
Most hackers utilize so-called Trojan horse attacks. You click on an attachment or download a piece of music or video infected with malware, and a hacker is able to remotely control your PC’s functions. Fortunately, you can take steps to secure your webcam. 
Experts offer these do’s and don’ts: Don’t click on suspicious attachments. You’ve heard it before, but too often we click without thinking. Email attachments remain a prime source for malware. Be wary of those supposedly funny emails forwarded by friends and family. You should also avoid suspicious sites offering free downloads of music, TV shows or videos.
Do use a firewall. Firewalls provide a measure of protection against unwanted traffic. Your computer comes with a firewall, but you need to make sure it’s turned on. If you use a Windows operating system, click on the Windows symbol in the lower-left corner of your screen, search for Windows Firewall, and you’ll be able to check the firewall settings. If you use a Mac OS, open System Preferences, click on the Sharing icon, select the Firewall tab and click Start.
Do use strong anti-virus software. Install a security suite that offers malware and spyware protection, then make sure you keep the protection up to date.
Don’t keep PCs with webcams in bedrooms. Limit webcam use to high-traffic areas, and remind family members not to do anything in front of a webcam they wouldn’t want the world to see.
Do secure your wireless connection. Make sure your wireless connection is protected with a unique password (not the default one that came with the router).
Don’t talk to strangers. Avoid IM conversations with people you don’t know, and advise your kids to do the same.
Do be cautious about accepting tech help. Would-be hackers have been known to ingratiate themselves with acquaintances by offering computer help. But that gives them the chance to rig webcams so they can spy on the computer user.
Do look for the indicator light. On external webcams, you’ll usually see a red light indicating the camera is on. Laptops with internal webcams usually have a blue LED indicator. If you use an external webcam, simply detach it from the USB port when it’s not in use.
In the end, your best bet is to use a decidedly low-tech solution, say the experts. “The ultimate security control is to cover the lens". 

C-SLIDE Webcam Cover 1.0 is a patented design that works with all laptops, computers, monitors, Smart TV’s, PS4, Xbox Kinect, and some External Web cameras.

Product Features:

• Super Thin: 1mm thick so laptops are able to shut with ease
  Length: 1.5”
  Height: .5”
  Applications: double sided tape
  Durable : made from high-grade plastic
  Won’t Scratch: designed to open and close without harming the camera lens
  
  
  Also available at the following stores: C-SLIDE, eBay, Amazon, Open Sky, and Etsy

Something so small, prevents a lot of harmful damage! I am so happy to find out how to keep my family and me safe. 

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Webcam Cover Is Offering A C-Slide To One Of My Readers. Thank You!
Contest is open to US, 18+ Only Good Luck and Stay Safe Online

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I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.