Did you know that hackers can get into your computer, turn on your webcam and watch or record you without your knowledge?
It is accomplished with the use of a Remote Access Trojan (RAT) which can be used to access and control your webcam, as well as everything else on your computer. It can happen with other types of devices, too. Ratters hack into webcams for a wide variety of reasons. Some just get a kick out of secretly watching people, while others use the videos blackmail their victims.
How it Works
A RAT is a type of spyware or malware that users download accidentally, typically believing they are downloading something else, and they may actually receive what they thought they were getting along with it, so they have no reason to suspect that anything is amiss.
The RAT allows the hacker to control your computer from their location, and access your webcam. Most RATs that access webcams disable the little light that is supposed to come on and let you know that camera is running.
Ratters can then see anything that’s happening in front of the camera, whenever they choose.
Protecting Yourself
The only truly reliable way to protect yourself is also the simplest. Cover your camera when you aren’t using it. A piece of electrical tape is all it takes, but you can buy special clip-on covers which can make life easier if you use your camera regularly.
Of course, using the same basic internet safety you should already be using can help protect your from downloading a RAT and other dangerous software. Do not open email attachments unless you are certain they are from a safe source. Be very careful about downloading music, videos, and other files. Use your firewall, anti-virus, anti-malware, and anti-spyware software.
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