One of the most common privacy techniques of dealing with your webcam when not using it is covering it with an external cover. Many people do it – even Mark Zuckerberg does it. However, that method is old and could even damage your MacBook when you shut it.
Doubt it? Check the image below.
For reference, Apple warns against using external covers to cover the webcam, as it may damage your MacBook display. This is because the clearance between the display and keyboard is designed to very tight tolerances. Besides, the company warns that, covering the camera interferes with the ambient light sensor and prevent features like automatic brightness and True Tone from working.
Instead the company advises you to rely on the camera indicator light which is baked in the MacBook to indicate when the camera is on.
Additionally, you can also set which apps can have access to your camera by going to System Preferences as long as you’re running macOS Mojave or later.
Don’t close your MacBook, MacBook Air, or MacBook Pro with a cover over the camera
Apple
Controlling App access to your camera on Mac
- On your Mac, Click on the Apple menu
- Go to System Preferences, and click Security & Privacy,
- Then click Privacy.
- Select Camera.
- Select the checkbox next to an app to allow it to access your camera. Deselecting the checkbox turns off camera access for that app. Keep in mind that if you turn off access for an app, you’re asked to turn it on again the next time that app tries to use your camera.
If you must use an external cover
Some work places might require you to use a webcam cover at all times. If that’s the case, ensure the cover is not thicker than an average piece of printer paper (0.1mm), and doesn’t leave adhesive residue when removed. You can still use a thicker one that’s more than 0.1mm but remember to remove it before you close your MacBook.
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