The best webcam privacy cover is not just for conspiracy theorists but is a savvy purchase for all digital device users. These small and inexpensive security tools offer peace of mind that no-one can access your webcam, or the cameras in your phone or tablet, without your permission. There are various designs available to suit different devices, and we've gathered up a selection of the best.
CloudValley webcam cover slide
Ultra-slim sliding solution
This is a subtle and simple option is perfect for most kinds of laptop webcams and built-in cameras. There is a layer of original, strong 3M adhesive on the back — you simply position this cover where you want it and press it into place. This option measures a slimline 0.023-inches (0.6mm), so it won't interfere with most laptop lids closing properly. Simply slide it closed when you want to know your privacy is protected and open it when you want to use your webcam.
AAkron 5-pack privacy cover set
Cute clip-on covers
These covers are a light-hearted privacy protection solution. The cute little critters clip onto your laptop, tablet, or phone to hide your camera view from prying eyes. These covers open up to 0.25-inches wide, so they should work on most up-to-date laptops and handheld devices. You get five in a pack, in various colors, so you can keep as many as you need and share the rest with friends.
Elimoons webcam cover slide
Three-pack perfect for white devices
This sliding webcam cover set functions like our staff pick but is ideal for anyone who has a white device and wants their webcam privacy cover to match. These covers are also ultra-thin, measuring a mere 0.027-inches thick. The covers have a strong, but non-permanent adhesive under a peel-off label that attaches to your device quickly and simply with a firm press.
Blocked webcam vinyl covers
57 reusable black dots
This sticker option offers a low-cost, non-permanent solution to protecting your privacy. You get 57 stickers in three different sizes — 0.5, 0.38, and 0.25-inches in diameter — to suit different webcams and cameras. These special low-tack stickers are reusable, so you can take them off when you want to use your camera and stick them back on when you're done. The nature of these stickers makes them suitable for use on televisions and game consoles with built-in cameras.
C-Slide Peep webcam covers
Perfect for use on tablets
Designed for use with tablet devices, the C-Slide solution measures in at 1-millimeter thick. It offers a swiveling mechanism to hide or access your webcam or front-facing camera. These covers are made from durable, high-grade aluminum. They also come in a three in a pack, so one purchase will accommodate several devices.
Yooway webcam cover slides
Fun, decorative option
This is another sliding webcam cover but with the added bonus of featuring an awesome panda-themed design. Yooway also offers two alternative panda designs, and if anyone is feeling particularly patriotic, a stars and stripes design, too. These covers measure in at 0.032-inches thick, so are not as slimline as rival products, but your laptop should still close properly. These are made of ABS plastic and have 3M adhesive backs.
Under cover
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Our overall staff pick, the CloudValley webcam cover slide, is a great example of a subtle but effective webcam privacy cover. With ultra-slim dimensions, once you attach it to your laptop, you can forget it's there.
If you're looking for a more fun and noticeable solution, do consider the AAkron 5-pack privacy cover set. These amusing googly-eyed monsters will protect your privacy and look cute doing so.
Anyone who wants to cover a camera on a tablet device would do well to look at the C-Slide Peep webcam covers. These covers offer a swiveling design for quick access to your device's camera or a speedy way to cover it up.