Live Camera Streams: My Personal Data Was Exposed

The idea of someone hacking your camera and spying on you is no longer just a plot device in Hollywood films. It is a very real threat that can lead to serious privacy breaches and even extortion. While most smart devices have enhanced security measures to prevent camhacking, hackers can still find workarounds to exploit.

There are several signs that may indicate someone has gained access to your camera. For example, if your camera begins to exhibit strange behaviour, such as third-party apps opening on their own or unfamiliar media appearing in your gallery. Additionally, you should check your camera's indicator light, as this may blink or turn on without your command. It is also important to review your camera permissions and be cautious of suspicious links and attachments.

If you suspect someone has gained access to your camera, it is recommended to take proactive measures such as using antivirus software, covering your camera lens, and strengthening your privacy settings.

Use two-factor authentication

Two-factor authentication is an extra layer of security for your accounts, designed to make sure that you’re the only one who can access them. This is especially important if you are using a live camera, as you do not want someone else to gain access to the footage or your personal information.

Two-factor authentication requires two different components: something you know, and something you have. An example of something you know is a password, and an example of something you have is a physical security key or a one-time passcode generated by an authentication app.

• Use a third-party authenticator app or a hardware security key instead of SMS-based two-factor authentication. SMS-based authentication is vulnerable to phone number-based hacks, such as SIM swap attacks.
• Use a physical security key. These are small devices that you can connect to your phone, tablet, or computer when you need to verify your identity. They are the safest method, but less convenient than using an authentication app.
• Use an authentication app. These apps generate one-time numerical passcodes that change approximately every minute. Popular options include Authy, Google Authenticator, and Microsoft Authenticator.
• Use different methods for different accounts. You can use a combination of the above methods for different accounts, depending on the sensitivity of the information and your personal preference.
• Be cautious about third-party apps. Only download apps from trusted sources like the App Store or Google Play, and check reviews before downloading. Even apps from official channels have been known to contain spyware.
• Enable two-factor authentication for all your accounts. Most major online services and social media platforms offer two-factor authentication, and it is usually very easy to set up.
• Don't give your verification codes to anyone. Services that use two-factor authentication will never ask you to give them your codes.
• Use a password manager. If you are using very strong and complex passwords, consider using a password manager to generate and store them.
• Be proactive. Take a proactive approach to security and enable two-factor authentication before your accounts are targeted by hackers. It is much easier to prevent an attack than to recover from one.

By using two-factor authentication, you can add an extra layer of security to your accounts and significantly reduce the risk of someone accessing your personal information.

Avoid sharing sensitive information on normal chat apps

The idea of someone watching you through your phone camera is extremely disturbing, and it is not paranoia to be worried about it. Your phone camera is a prime spying tool, and digital privacy is not a given. It is something you need to grapple with continuously.

• Use strong passwords: One of the most basic and important ways to secure your online accounts is to use strong passwords. A strong password is long, complex, unique, and unpredictable. It should not contain any personal information, common words, or sequential numbers or letters.
• Avoid phishing emails: Phishing is a type of cyber attack that uses fake emails to trick you into clicking on malicious links or attachments or providing your sensitive information. Phishing emails often appear to come from legitimate sources, such as your bank, your employer, or a government agency. They may use urgent or threatening language to pressure you into taking action.
• Limit your social media exposure: Social media platforms can be a great way to connect with friends, family, or colleagues, but they can also be a source of data leakage. Hackers can use your social media posts, profiles, or messages to gather information about you, such as your location, interests, habits, or contacts. To limit your social media exposure, adjust your privacy settings, avoid posting or sharing sensitive information, and be cautious about who you accept as a friend or follower.
• Use encryption and a virtual private network (VPN): Encryption and VPN are two technologies that can help protect your sensitive information online. Encryption converts your data into a code that only authorized parties can read. A VPN creates a secure connection between your device and a server, hiding your IP address and encrypting your traffic. Use encryption and a VPN when sending or receiving sensitive information online, especially on public or unsecured networks.
• Educate yourself and others: Stay updated on the current trends, techniques, and tools that hackers use to steal or compromise your data. Share your knowledge and experience with friends, family, or colleagues, and help them improve their security awareness and skills.

Change passwords regularly

Changing your passwords regularly is a critical component of maintaining robust password security. While it may be tedious, it is a necessary step to safeguard your personal information and online accounts. Here are some reasons why changing passwords regularly is essential:

Preventing Unauthorized Access

By changing your passwords periodically, you reduce the window of opportunity for unauthorized individuals to access your accounts. If your password is compromised without your knowledge, regular changes limit the time a hacker can spend in your account and help minimize potential damage.

Protecting Sensitive Information

Your online accounts may contain sensitive personal and financial information. By changing your passwords regularly, you add an extra layer of protection to this data. This proactive measure ensures that even if a password is breached, the impact is mitigated by the fact that it is no longer valid after a few months.

Thwarting Cybercriminals

Cybercriminals often seek to exploit human nature and target people who use weak or easily guessable passwords. By regularly changing your passwords, you make it harder for cybercriminals to gain access to your accounts. A strong, unique password that is changed periodically can significantly enhance your online security.

Keeping Up with Best Practices

Password security is a dynamic field, and best practices evolve over time. By staying informed and adapting your password management strategies, you can better protect yourself from emerging threats. For example, the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) in the US advised in 2017 that passwords should not be changed arbitrarily but rather in response to a user request or evidence of a breach.

Enhancing Overall Security

Changing your passwords regularly is just one aspect of good cyber hygiene. It should be complemented by other measures, such as using a password manager, enabling two-factor authentication (2FA), and ensuring your passwords are strong and unique. By adopting a comprehensive approach to password security, you make it significantly harder for unauthorized individuals to access your accounts.

In conclusion, changing passwords regularly is an important tool in the fight against cybercrime and unauthorized access. It may be inconvenient, but the benefits of enhanced security and peace of mind are well worth the effort.

Avoid automatic syncing of photos with the cloud

It is possible for someone to remotely access your phone camera and spy on you. This can be done by installing spyware or remote-access trojan malware on your device. Spyware can be installed by hackers, employers, former partners, or random individuals.

To avoid automatic syncing of photos with the cloud, you can follow these steps:

For Android:

• Launch the Google Photos app.
• Tap on your profile picture.
• Tap "Photos Settings".
• Tap the "Backup and Sync" setting.
• Toggle "Backup and Sync" off to stop Google Photos from uploading and syncing your photos.

For iOS:

• Launch Google Photos.
• Tap on the profile picture.
• Tap on the downward pointer beside the account name and email address.
• Select "Manage Accounts on This Device".
• Tap "Remove from This Device".
• Tap "Remove" again to confirm and sign out.

For Desktop:

Solution 1: Pause Google Drive Sync

• Click on the Backup and Sync app in the taskbar and select "Pause".
• If the activity was paused, you will see "Resume" instead.

Solution 2: Sign Out

• Click on the Backup and Sync app in the taskbar and select "Preferences".
• Click "Settings".
• Click "Disconnect Account".
• Confirm the disconnection by clicking "Disconnect Account" once more.

Solution 3: Quit the Backup and Sync App

• Click on the Google Backup and Sync app icon in the taskbar and select "Quit Backup and Sync".
• Google Photos will stop syncing until the app is relaunched.

Solution 4: Uninstall the Google Backup and Sync App

• Click on the Windows Start menu and go to "Settings".
• Locate and uninstall the "Backup and Sync from Google" app.
• Confirm the uninstallation.

Solution 5: Stop (Uncheck) Photos from Uploading and Syncing

• Click on the Backup and Sync app in the taskbar and select "Preferences".
• Uncheck "Pictures" under "My PC" and "Upload newly added photos" under "Google Photos".

By following these steps, you can prevent your photos from automatically syncing with the cloud, which can help protect your privacy and reduce the risk of someone accessing your photos without your consent.

Use special apps for sending sensitive information

When sending sensitive information, it is important to take precautions to ensure that your data remains secure. Here are some tips and strategies to help protect your information:

Use Secure Email Services

Email is a widely used communication tool, but its vulnerabilities make it susceptible to data breaches. Secure email services like ProtonMail, Tutanota, and Hushmail offer end-to-end encryption, ensuring that only the intended recipient can access the message contents. These services also provide additional security features such as self-destructing messages and password-protected attachments.

Encrypted Messaging Services

For real-time communication and file sharing, consider using encrypted messaging services like Signal, Telegram, or WhatsApp. These services utilize end-to-end encryption, preventing anyone, including service providers, from accessing your messages.

Secure Cloud Storage Applications

When choosing a cloud storage provider, prioritize security features such as end-to-end encryption, strong access controls, and data residency options. Services like Sync.com, pCloud, and Tresorit offer zero-knowledge encryption, ensuring that only authorized recipients can access your data.

Secure Courier Services

If you need to send physical documents containing sensitive information, use a reputable secure courier service. Package the documents securely in tamper-evident envelopes or containers, and consider adding seals or barcodes for tracking. Request proof of delivery and opt for services that require recipient signatures.

Online Faxing Solutions

Faxing remains an excellent method for sending sensitive information, especially with the transition to digital faxing services. Online faxing services offer encryption, integration capabilities, user access controls, and authentication measures to protect your transmitted data.

Best Practices for Sending Sensitive Information:

• Minimize the use and sharing of sensitive information.
• Use strong passwords and enable two-factor authentication.
• Regularly update your software, applications, and security tools to patch vulnerabilities.
• Avoid sending sensitive information over public Wi-Fi networks. If necessary, use a virtual private network (VPN) to encrypt your data.
• Employ encryption whenever possible, such as encrypting email attachments and cloud-stored documents.
• Be cautious of phishing attempts and always verify the sender's legitimacy before clicking on links or downloading attachments.
• Restrict access to sensitive information by implementing user permissions and access controls.
• Secure physical documents with tamper-evident envelopes or registered mail.

Remember, it is crucial to stay proactive and vigilant in protecting your sensitive information. By following these tips and utilizing secure apps and services, you can help safeguard your data from unauthorized access.

Frequently asked questions