Can A Hacker Watch You?

Yes, a hacker can watch you, and in a variety of ways, from hijacking your webcam and listening through your microphone to secretly mirroring your phone's screen.

This is typically done by tricking you into installing malicious software, such as spyware or a Remote Access Trojan (RAT), that gives them remote access to your device.

How hackers can watch you

Hackers employ several methods to conduct surveillance. A single malicious program can combine multiple techniques to maximize the information they collect.

Webcam and microphone hijacking (Camfecting)

• How it works: Hackers use malware, often delivered via a malicious link or file, to access and control a device's camera and microphone. Once installed, a Remote Access Trojan (RAT) can activate the webcam to record video and the microphone to capture audio without the user's knowledge.
• Indicator lights can be defeated: While most devices have an indicator light that turns on when the camera is active, it's possible for hackers to disable it through software, making their spying activity completely invisible.

Screen mirroring and remote control

• How it works: Malware can capture screenshots, record screen activity, and even control your device remotely. In some cases, hackers can use malicious versions of legitimate screen-sharing software or exploit vulnerabilities to mirror your screen.
• How it applies: This threat exists for computers, tablets, and smartphones. Hackers could watch everything you do on your screen in real time, from browsing websites to typing messages.

Keyloggers and spyware

• How it works: Spyware is a type of malicious software designed to gather data without your consent and send it to a third party. A specific type of spyware, called a keylogger, records everything you type on your keyboard or phone.
• Information stolen: This includes confidential data like login credentials, passwords, bank account numbers, emails, and sensitive messages. Highly sophisticated spyware like Pegasus, used against high-profile individuals, can take control of virtually everything on a phone.

Data sniffing on unsecured networks

• How it works: When you use an unencrypted or public Wi-Fi network, such as in a coffee shop, a hacker on the same network can use a "packet sniffer" to intercept data transmitted from your device.
• Information stolen: Without encryption, this can expose your login credentials, search queries, and other data. The hacker can then use this information to access your accounts.

Smart TV and IoT device exploitation

• How it works: Internet-connected devices, including smart TVs, often come equipped with cameras and microphones. Hackers can exploit vulnerabilities in their software to gain control over them, turning the device into a listening and surveillance tool.
• Expanding the attack surface: Since many smart devices run on similar web-based code as computers, they are also susceptible to malware attacks.

Why hackers spy on people

Hackers' motivations for watching you are diverse and often financially driven, but can also involve espionage and harassment.

• Financial gain: The most common motivation is to steal personal and financial data. This information can be sold on the dark web or used directly for financial crimes and identity theft.
• Espionage: Hackers may engage in corporate or state-sponsored espionage to steal intellectual property, trade secrets, or political intelligence.
• Extortion and blackmail: Gaining access to a person's camera or private messages allows a hacker to collect compromising footage or information. The hacker can then threaten to release this data unless a ransom is paid.
• Cyberstalking and harassment: In some cases, hackers are motivated by malicious intent toward a specific individual. This can involve collecting information for stalking or harassment purposes, either by themselves or by selling the information to someone else.

How to protect yourself from being watched

You can significantly reduce your vulnerability to hackers by taking proactive security measures.

• Practice good "cyber hygiene": Be cautious about what you click. Avoid suspicious links in emails or text messages, especially those with generic messages or unexpected attachments. Only download software from official app stores and trusted developers.
• Use strong passwords and two-factor authentication (2FA): Use a unique, strong password for every online account. Enable 2FA whenever possible to add a critical layer of security, making it harder for hackers to access your accounts even if they steal your password.
• Keep your software updated: Enable automatic updates for your operating system, web browser, and other software. Updates frequently include security patches that fix vulnerabilities hackers can exploit.
• Cover your webcam and mute your microphone: Place a physical cover over your webcam when not in use. Some laptops come with a built-in privacy shutter. This is the most reliable way to prevent camera spying.
• Secure your network: Use a strong, unique password for your home Wi-Fi network. Avoid using public Wi-Fi networks for sensitive activities like online banking. A Virtual Private Network (VPN) can also encrypt your internet traffic, preventing hackers from intercepting your data on unsecured networks.
• Install antivirus and anti-malware software: Use reputable security software on all your devices to detect and remove malicious programs like spyware and RATs.
• Be aware of app permissions: Regularly review the apps on your phone and computer to see what permissions they have. Revoke camera or microphone access for any app that doesn't need it to function.