Having your camera hacked “not only” violates your privacy, it also seriously affects your mental health and peace of mind. Cyber security company ESET warned against camera hacking and provided information on what to do.
We spend our time with our computers, smartphones; We live a digital life in front of the screen 7 hours a day, 24 days a week. It also means we spend time in front of a camera. But while the cameras we use online allow us to lend a helping hand to our friends and family and attend meetings from just about anywhere, they do come with some risks; camera hacking.
How does camera hacking happen?
Remote Access Trojan (RAT) is a special type of malware that allows attackers to remotely control victims' electronic devices. With this method, attackers can record and send video files to them by activating the camera without even turning on the light. With the same software, attackers can monitor keystrokes and steal many more information such as passwords and bank details. RAT can be installed like any other malware in the following ways:
Link or malicious attachments in phishing emails
malicious links in messaging apps or social media; and
Legal looking malicious mobile apps
Vulnerabilities are another theoretical way hackers can infiltrate cameras to breach people's privacy. Software contains many errors because it is created by humans. Some of these bugs can be exploited, allowing malicious people to take certain actions, such as remote access to devices.
Hacked home security devices are a slightly different situation, but still pose a huge privacy risk. These devices include security cameras and baby monitors, which are increasingly integral parts of smart homes. Although they are designed to keep our family safe, these devices can fall into the hands of attackers. As mentioned above, the devices in question can fall into the hands of attackers with security vulnerabilities, or they can also seize these devices by "brute force" with automated software that tries to use the passwords we used before on new accounts.
How do you know if your camera has been hacked?
Many camera hackers live far away from their victims, especially in countries where professional cybercriminals who want to extort their victims or sell their personal data on the internet and such actions are ignored. This makes it more important than ever that we take protective measures to understand whether we have been targeted.
ESET experts pointed out four points about signs that your camera has been hacked;
Camera indicator light on Although some hackers can hide their attacks by turning off the camera light, this is not always the case. If your light is on when you are not using your camera, your device may have been compromised.
Having strange files on your computer Even if a hacker takes an image from your camera, saved files may remain on your computer. Check for anything unusual, especially in the documents or video folders part of your hard drive.
Having some unusual applications on your system The Remote Access Trojan (RAT) is one of the most common ways hackers use your camera remotely. Scan for malware and see if you get a warning about software that shouldn't be on your computer or device as a result of the scan.
Changing your settings To make things even easier, another action taken by malware such as RAT is interfering with the security software on your device or operating system. Check if any security features are disabled.
What if someone contacts you claiming to have hijacked your camera? This may be saying less than you think. Opportunistic scammers use certain information, such as an old email address and password obtained through a previous breach, as "proof" that they have accessed your device and camera. They try to scam you into sending cryptocurrencies to anyone in your contacts, threatening to send your inappropriate images or videos. Follow the steps above and ignore these blackmail attempts unless there is solid proof that the scammers are telling the truth.
How to prevent camera hacking?
Staying safe from camera hacks requires vigilance and best-practice security. Always update your computer, mobile phone or smart home devices with the latest software and install an antivirus program on them. Make sure your device is protected with a strong and unique passcode or passphrase, along with two-factor authentication (2FA) if possible. Do not click on links from any unsolicited address. Cover your camera lenses when not in use, although it won't stop criminals from eavesdropping on you with your microphone.
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