For those of us that use computers broadband is a wonderful thing.  But it has only really been available to us this century.  Before then we were happy to access the World Wide Web through our landline telephones.  Do you remember when everyone had dial-up internet and you could not talk on the phone and access the internet at the same time?

But now, as soon as you activate your computer, tablet, Smart TV, or mobile the internet is ready to go.  We now take this for granted, and it is very good news but there is something else to be considered here.  You are internet ready which means that the internet can access you just as instantly as you can access it!

Another aspect of our computer devices that we now take for granted is our webcam. The only devices likely to be sold without them these days are desk top computers.  Laptops have webcams and most tablets and mobile phones have one designed to take pictures and videos from either side of the device.

It is a fact that, though not probable at the moment, it is possible for internet hackers to operate webcams without the permission of the user and we are being warned more and more about this.  So please, take a little care when your device is turned on.

If you still have a desktop computer the webcam is often attached via a wire and a USB port which means that you can move it independently of the computer.  So you can easily plug it out or turn it to face a wall or so that it is standing on its lens when you are not using it, while your mobile phone is usually facing the ceiling as is your tablet, but be mindful of what can be seen from the webcam on your open laptop; especially if you keep it in your bedroom. I like to think that I have nothing to hide but I would rather keep how I look first thing in the morning to myself.  The best way to be sure you are not being accessed is to cover the camera lens. There is now a device that one can buy but I personally use a clothes peg and a bit of tissue.

I would rather that I have to remember that I can’t be seen when I want to be, than be seen when I don’t.

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Maureen B