WEBWISE
KNOWLEDGE & LEARNING BETA
5 February 2014 Last updated at 16:00
Webcam safety with Jacqueline Jossa
Jacqueline Jossa's guide to webcam safety:http://www.bbc.co.uk/webwise/0/25812110
Webcams make it possible for us to chat face to face with friends and family wherever we, or they, may be.
You could be in the next
room to the other person or on the other side of the world, but the
webcam allows you to talk as if you were face to face.
Now there are some risks attached to webcam use, but by
following a few simple steps you can reduce the chances that you'll come
to harm. What is 'Ratting'?
Hackers are able to gain access to a victim's computers using a piece of malicious software (malware) called a Remote-Access Trojan (Rat) which infects the victim's computer or device with a virus. These are sometimes referred to more generally as remote access tools.Many of these 'Rats' now include a function allowing a hacker to access the victim's webcam without their knowledge.
How secure is your webcam?
So how does a hacker get a virus
into your computer or device? One way they can do this is by sending you
an email with a link. If you receive an email from a stranger, think
before clicking on a link or an attachment.
The risk of having your webcam hacked is also higher if you
don't have up-to-date anti-virus software on your computer and other
software is not kept up-to-date. So make sure you have the latest
versions of security software on all your devices including tablets and
smartphones.Where is your webcam?
It is important to avoid putting webcams in private areas such as bedrooms. When webcams are not in use don't forget to unplug them, cover the lens or point it at a blank wall.Making friends online
Continue reading the main story
More common-sense tips can be found in the Childnet video and webcam chat guides
Think before you cam
If you use your webcam to
communicate with people you meet online, it is important to consider how
well you know them. If you are having a private conversation are you
sure they are the only person who can see you?
Also consider whether there's a chance that they could be
recording what you are saying or doing - you might not want them to post
a video of your chat on a social network or share it using their mobile
phone.Remember, once it is out there you may never be able to delete all copies of it. It is against the law for someone to intrude on your privacy in this way and offenders can be prosecuted under the Computer Misuse Act.
