How To Disable The Camera & Microphone On Your Android Phone - Screen Rant

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Android makes it easy to disable the camera and microphone on a smartphone without resorting to physically blocking or digging into the electronics of the device. Since this change is made in the software, it's simple to reverse and quite convenient. Whether concerned about a particular app invading privacy or wanting to take extra precautions when dealing with personal matters and discussing business secrets, an Android phone can temporarily block any or all apps from potentially watching or listening.

Android provides an amazing amount of control over various permissions allowed for each app. It's possible to control whether each app can access the user's location, contact lists, text messages, call logs, vital signs if wearing a smartwatch, nearby Bluetooth devices, storage, and much more. Naturally, For some of these, Android apps ask the user at the time the app requests access whether to allow it once, always, never, or only while using the app. It's a good system and works well for individual control.

Among the most important permissions given to an app are the camera and microphone, which potentially provide immediate access to seeing the user with the front-facing camera, the place and people nearby with the rear camera, and listening to what's being said as well as ambient sounds with the microphone. This is the scenario presented in spy thrillers and while this might sound overly dramatic, it can actually happen. The good news is that Android has a way to easily override apps that might be overstepping bounds and using the camera and microphone inappropriately. The controls are in the Settings app in the Privacy section. The Camera Access and Microphone Access toggles are near the top and just a tap will disable either. Of course, the need for greater protection doesn't require devious developers, as the relatively ease of accidentally broadcasting to social media is another good reason to switch access off during private moments.

Android's App Permissions

Android Privacy Settings Camera Mic Disabled

When access is blocked for an app that requires it, the app can request access from the user again when that sensor or data is needed. For example, after disabling the camera or microphone, the built-in camera app can't record video since both are expected to be used. The app will ask for camera access when opened since it starts in photo mode. If access is denied, the viewfinder will remain black. If permitted, the Camera Access toggle will be switched back on in the privacy settings for all apps that previously had access. When switching to video mode, the camera app will request microphone access as well.

Android allows finer control of camera and microphone access with any particular app being denied if that is what's wanted. In the privacy settings, tapping Permission manager reveals how many apps have access currently. Tapping Camera or Microphone, then any app makes it easy to change its usage to Allow only while using the app, Ask every time, or Don't allow. Despite so many ways to protect privacy on Android, malware can sometimes break the rules and access data and sensors. Therefore, for ultimate secrecy, simply turning the Android phone off or leaving it out of visual and vocal range might be wise.

Next: How To Update Google Chrome On Android & Get All The Latest Features

Source: Google

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About The Author

Alan Truly (1105 Articles Published)

Alan is a Tech Writer living in Nova Scotia, Canada. A tech-enthusiast since his youth, Alan stays current on what is new and what is next. With over 30 years experience in computer, video and photo equipment, you can expect useful tips and insights in his writing. Alan has a degree in programming, many years focused on design, editing, and animation. A period of managing logistics and e-commerce operations for a mobile accessories company rounds out a diverse background. Alan is a true jack of all digital trades in this ever-changing computer-enriched world. To stay flexible in mind and in body, he practices yoga, light cardio, and eats a whole food diet, based on minimally processed plants.