Disabling camera on new iMAC

[MacInWin]

Patrick, the challenge with a software disabling fix is that anything you can disable by software could theoretically be un-disabled by software. But a post-it note is not going to be easily defeated from outside. And it's not sticky enough to leave any residue behind when I do remove it.

 

[pm-r]

Does the light also notify you if the mic has been accessed?

It's one of the smaller reasons that I like my Mac mini. No camera or mic.

The mike light Only activates during Use, Unless some hacks might still work.


No camera or mic??? Hmmm... I guess you don't have family, friends, relatives or business people that you might want to have a face-to-face chat with.

I enjoyed the use of ours just a week or so ago when my wife was in Mexico along visiting with her sister, and again last month to chat with one of our granddaughter's in Alberta on her birthday.

Actually a nice device to have with our Macs and iDevices.





- Patrick
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[pm-r]

But a post-it note is not going to be easily defeated from outside.

Oh, I quite agree Jake, and that would be my choice if I was so concerned of any visual trespass, I just mentioned the fact for those who like or must keep their Macs clean and uncluttered. Definitely not the State of Affairs on my desk!!!! I must be a super genius going by some of the famous quotations.





- Patrick
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[ferrarr]

The mike light Only activates during Use, Unless some hacks might still work.

Same with the camera, right? I never knew there was a mic light though?

No camera or mic??? Hmmm... I guess you don't have family, friends, relatives or business people that you might want to have a face-to-face chat with.

USB cameras work just as well. Unplug when done.

 

[pm-r]

Same with the camera, right? I never knew there was a mic light though?

Actually the light is from a small/tiny but bright LED that's right beside the hole for the builtin camera.

USB cameras work just as well. Unplug when done.

Yes, some do, and very secure when disconnected I'd say.





- Patrick
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[Rod]

I dont think anyone read my post #12. OverSight. https://objective-see.com/products/oversight.html selectively blocks and reports all Mic and Camera use and its free.

 

[chscag]

Thanks Rod. Looks like most of us skipped past that. By the way, the security T2 chip which is used in the new MacBook Pros, iMac Pro, and now the new Mac Mini, also protects against Mic and I believe Camera activation.

 

[MacInWin]

Rod, I read it and thought I had included you in post #21. The same concern applies, any sufficiently nefarious actor can probably work through any software solution.

 

[Rod]

Jake you’re possibly correct but first spyware if some sort needs to be installed on the device. As I understand it that would have to be trough a Trojan horse, physical access or by giving someone permission for online access.

 

[pm-r]

Jake you’re possibly correct but first spyware if some sort needs to be installed on the device. As I understand it that would have to be trough a Trojan horse, physical access or by giving someone permission for online access.

That was my understanding of the innerworkings of the OS as well.





- Patrick
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[MacInWin]

Yep, all that is true. And the only way someone can steal your stuff is to either break in, sneak in because you forgot to lock the door or have a key. That's why I have a burglar alarm. And tape over the camera. (Being paranoid does not mean they are not out to get you...)

 

[Rod]

That’s what they call “healthy” paranoia I think.