Is your phone watching you? Easy steps to check and stay safe
Almost everyone currently uses a smartphone, which has become an indispensable part of everyday life. This remarkable device facilitates many tasks, but unfortunately, it can also be used for spying. How can we check which apps and websites have access to our camera?
6:04 PM EDT, September 20, 2024
Nowadays, smartphones have become an integral part of our lives, accompanying us practically every step of the way. Unfortunately, the increasing number of applications and the development of technology make us wonder more and more if our privacy is protected. Can your phone spy on you without your consent? It turns out that there is a simple trick that can help you find out. In this article, you'll learn how to recognize if your device threatens your privacy.
Why is it worth limiting access to the camera on your phone?
Modern smartphones are equipped with various features designed to make everyday life easier. Media often encourages installing new applications, which requires creating accounts and granting access to the camera.
Some applications, such as those for communication or photo editing, do indeed need access to the camera, but in many cases, this is not necessary for the app's proper functioning. If you are concerned that your phone may be used for spying, it's worth following the guide below, especially if you use an Android smartphone.
Start by reviewing the applications you have installed on your phone. Are they really essential to you? If not, consider removing them to free up space and reduce risk.
After cleanup, go to your smartphone settings, select the "apps" tab, and click the three-dot icon in the upper right corner. A menu will open where you select "permission manager". Then choose the option "camera" and check which applications have access to the camera. Consider if all these permissions are actually necessary. The more apps have access to the camera, the greater the risk that one of them might get hacked.
What about websites?
While browsing new websites, we often have to agree to terms, including granting access to the camera. Over time, we may forget which sites have ongoing access to this phone feature. Therefore, it is worthwhile to periodically review and clean your browser for unnecessary permissions.
How to do it: Open the browser, click the three-dot icon in the upper corner of the screen, select "settings," and then "site settings." Choose the "camera" option and uncheck the sites that do not need access. These simple steps will make your device safer and better protect your privacy.
