Answering Squib's question on email hacking the other day, has caused me to think about how many people are probably unaware of some very basic issues when it comes to computer security.
A RAT (Remote Administration Tool), is a piece of software that allows you to control a computer over a network connection (eg: the internet). RATs are a vital tool for people who work with technology; they are also frequently used by criminals. One of the creepiest things RATs are used for is spying on people through webcams. This behaviour is not rare or uncommon. Pervy cunts who are into this sort of thing congregate on online forums and openly swap pictures and videos of (almost exclusively female) victims. I know this because—back in the day—I used to hang out (in real life) with those very same pervy cunts. Most of them worked in I.T. and security jobs. (I'm seriously uncomfortable admitting to this. Back then, I thought what they did was funny. Obviously, I no longer do.)
A big part of the problem lies in how many network-connected cameras we have these days—laptops, phones, tablets, tellies—and almost all of them running poorly coded and/or criminally outdated software. (At some point I'm going to rant about why self-driving cars are not going to "take over" in the next twenty years)
The only real-world solution to the camera problem that I know of: adhesive tape. Duct tape, masking tape, electrical tape, it doesn't matter; so long as it's opaque and sticks to whatever you're using it on. I have a piece of tape over every camera in my house. That may sound unreasonably paranoid, but I don't think it is. Recently, the director of the FBI mentioned in a speech that he tapes up his cameras too; and if it's good enough for him …
I just wish there was such a simple solution for dealing with microphones as well.
4 comments :
Ah yes cameras. I would tape up the one on this lappy too, but I use it for Skype. Which is even more important now that my husband has gone overseas for three months. I must post about it, but all is good, he just needed a change of scenery.
Maybe you could spend some time explaining precisely how a VPN works and how I should use one for my... erm... swashbuckling activities regarding certain HBO shows. ;)
The good thing about tape is that it's easy to peel off and then replace when you're finished with your camera.
I'll see if I can get something about VPNs up this evening.
Funny you should say this because we always tease LittleSquib because she has hers taped over but now it looks like SHE HAS A VERY GOOD POINT!
Sounds like LittleSquib has her head on straight. Good thing too, since her generation is going to have to go through their teens with boyfriends who are always pestering them to send nude photos.
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