Webcam Covers Unnecessary
Apple warns that webcam covers can damage MacBook displays and don't improve privacy, as hackers can't access cameras without the green light indicator on modern Macs.
Key points
- Apple issues warnings that webcam covers can damage MacBook displays.
- Webcam covers don't meaningfully improve privacy on modern Macs with Apple Silicon and Intel (post-2008).
- The green light indicator on modern Macs prevents hackers from accessing cameras without being detected.
- Over 45,000 organizations trust Mosyle for Apple device security and management.
- Plastic webcam covers were popular in the 2010s as a low-tech security measure.
The use of webcam covers has been a topic of discussion in recent years, with many believing they provide an extra layer of security against hackers. However, Apple has begun to issue warnings that these covers are not necessary and can even cause damage to MacBook displays. The concern over webcam security originated in the 2010s, with plastic webcam covers, especially the sliding kind, gaining popularity as a low-tech way to prevent eavesdropping on compromised machines. Nevertheless, by 2020, Apple started to advise against using these covers, citing the potential damage they can cause to the display and the fact that they can interfere with features like True Tone. Furthermore, on modern Macs with Apple Silicon and Intel (post-2008), a malicious hacker cannot access the camera without the green light indicator turning on, making the use of webcam covers redundant.
Sources
The WireByte editorial team synthesises technology news from multiple primary sources, verifies the facts, and links every source. Articles are produced with AI assistance and reviewed under our editorial policy.