Cybercriminals can access these cameras, and because of their positions — facing your living room, kitchen, or office — they can expose your privacy and sensitive conversations. That's why it's a good idea to cover up your webcam or take other steps to improve your internet security.

Do I really need to cover my laptop camera?

Here's the short answer: You should, when feasible, cover or disconnect your webcam when it's not in use. ... Even if you think the view from your laptop or monitor is boring and benign, webcam access can be used to elevate a hacker's access or facilitate other kinds of attacks through social engineering.

Does covering the camera on your laptop damage it?

Using tape or lens stickers used to cover the camera of your laptop can leave residue behind and ruin the overall appearance of your laptop. ... One reason being that the gap between the screen and the keyboard is very narrow, so if you close your laptop while covering your camera, you will likely damage your screen.