As we all become more conscious about internet security many laptop owners are making the decision to cover the lens on their laptop’s webcam. This simple fix goes some way to alleviate worries that hackers could be snooping on you without your knowledge.
However, if you constantly hide your camera then it’s worth taking note as it seems that applying these covers could end up permanently damaging your Apple MacBook.
In fact, Apple is so concerned about the issue the firm has just posted advice on its website warning of the dangers. While it appears safe to cover the camera when actually using Apple’s laptops, problems can arise the minute you close the case with it still attached.
Explaining more, Apple said: “If you close your Mac notebook with a camera cover installed, you might damage your display because the clearance between the display and keyboard is designed to very tight tolerances.”
There is another reason why placing things over the camera is a bad idea as Apple says it can also interfere with the ambient light sensor and prevent features like automatic brightness and True Tone from working.
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Clearly, there are concerns about privacy and security but the US firm is keen to point out that it includes a camera indicator light which glows green if your webcam is active and users can also turn off the camera so specfic apps can’t access it.
“We design Apple products to protect your privacy and give you control over your information”, the US firm says.
“Our products and features include innovative privacy technologies and techniques designed to minimize how much of your data we — or anyone else — can access. And powerful security features help prevent anyone except you from being able to access your information.”
“The FaceTime HD camera built into your Mac computer is designed with your privacy in mind and uses a camera indicator light that glows green when the camera is active. So you will always know when the camera is on.”
Apple has issued a set of guidelines for those that require their cameras to be covered at all times and if that issue affects you here’s what you need to do.
• Make sure the camera cover is not thicker than an average piece of printer paper (0.1mm).
• Avoid using a camera cover that leaves adhesive residue.
• If you install a camera cover that is thicker than 0.1mm, remove the camera cover before closing your computer.