How do I see which apps can use my camera and microphone on Windows and Mac?
On Windows 11, open Settings, then Privacy & security, then Camera or Microphone to see every app with a switch. On a Mac, open System Settings, then Privacy & Security, then Camera or Microphone. Turn off any app that has no reason to see or hear you.
Video call apps need the camera and mic. A shopping app or game usually doesn't. On Windows, programs you downloaded from a website share one switch called "Let desktop apps access your camera". The Camera page can also show which apps used it recently. Turning a switch off is safe, and you can turn it back on later.
You can also tell when they're in use. Most laptops light up a small light beside the camera. On Windows, a microphone icon appears near the clock when an app is listening. On a Mac, a green dot in the menu bar means the camera is on and an orange dot means the mic is on. Open Control Center to see which app is using them.
- Windows: Start, Settings, Privacy & security, Camera, then Microphone
- Mac: System Settings, Privacy & Security, Camera, then Microphone
- Turn off any app that doesn't need access
- Watch for the camera light, the mic icon on Windows, or the green and orange dots on a Mac
- Consider a sliding camera cover for extra peace of mind
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Camera and Microphone Privacy
From the Video Calls & Devices course. Choose which apps can see and hear you, and spot when they do.