The Best Webcam Privacy Cover

Buying Guide

Did you know that a hacker can gain access to your webcam in under 60 seconds? It’s true, but there are some things you can do to protect yourself, such as covering the webcam up when not in use. Some computer users simply place a sticker over their webcam, however, the adhesive leaves behind a film that makes the camera unusable. A webcam privacy cover protects the camera while preventing hackers from spying on you when the camera isn’t in use.

As you shop for a webcam privacy cover, you’ll want to keep in mind that covers that do not have an adhesive backing are typically designed for use with specific camera models. You’ll need to read the product’s compatibility guide before buying to ensure the cover will fit over your webcam.

No matter which type of webcam privacy cover you select, you want to make sure it’s durable and designed to last. For example, a webcam that is constructed from a high-quality aluminum alloy is able to withstand daily wear and tear. Other models are made from high-grade plastics.

If you plan on using the webcam privacy cover on a laptop or notebook, you’ll want it to be thin. This way, the device won’t interfere with closing the lid when you want to safely set it aside. The EYSOFT Webcam Cover, 5-Pack has one of the thinnest covers, which measures just 0.022 inches thick. It’s also easy to use. Consumers simply swipe the circle left to cover up the viewfinder or right to reveal it.

Opt for a webcam cover that has a strong adhesive backing, otherwise, you risk it falling off after only a few uses. Some models use a nano gel that not only holds the device in place for the long haul but also leaves behind no residue when removed.

When purchasing a webcam privacy cover multi-pack, you want to look for something that has a universal design that fits most devices. That means you can attach one to your smartphone, one to your tablet and one to your laptop without having to purchase three different types of covers.

• To install a webcam privacy cover that has an adhesive backing, you must first clean the surface of the device you want the cover to go on. You can do this with a lint-free cloth. Next, you’ll need to peel away the paper backing to reveal the adhesive. Place the cover over the webcam so that the hole surrounds the viewfinder. Press and hold the privacy cover in place for approximately 15 seconds to ensure a good seal is created. The webcam cover is now ready to use.
• If your webcam cover becomes dusty, you can wipe it clean using a moist cotton swab. Some units can be taken apart into two pieces, cleaned with a little dish soap and water and reinstalled once dry.
• In addition to installing a webcam privacy cover, there are a few other steps you’ll want to take to protect yourself from hackers. Start off by enabling your firewall and updating your antivirus software to the latest version. Next, install the latest software and operating system updates. Finally, delete any emails that were not sent by a trusted source and never click on any suspicious links.
• To determine which set of webcam privacy covers is the best value, you need to divide the product’s total cost by the number of webcam covers included in the set. The EYSOFT Webcam Cover, 5-Pack is the most affordable of the bunch. Models that are more specialized command the highest price.