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Re:Research shows how MacBook Webcams can spy on their users... by mathhead on Wednesday December 18, 2013 @02:49PM (#6930130)
Nice.

I own a Logitech C920 Pro and a software called webcam settings allows me to easily turn off the lights. If this software can do this, so can a malware.

Also, a malware can be designed to click quick snaps when there is no keyword or mouse activity for a specific period. This can help the malware go unnoticed without controlling the light. Want to take it to the next level? You can use the mic anytime to estimate the user's distance from the system and then enable webcam accordingly. I know this would not be very accurate, but possible.

Re:Research shows how MacBook Webcams can spy on their users... by jrochkind1 on Wednesday December 18, 2013 @03:07PM (#6930262)
This story is not about a Logitech camera.

It is about the Macbook iSight. There is definitely no (official, known) software that allows you to turn off the privacy light. The Apple engineers intended it to be impossible to disable, and believed it was.

Re:Research shows how MacBook Webcams can spy on their users... by mathhead on Wednesday December 18, 2013 @03:10PM (#6930286)
Yes, I do understand the story is about Macbook iSight. Was just sharing what happens with another vendor as this is relevant and related.
Re:Research shows how MacBook Webcams can spy on their users... by toomuchtodo on Wednesday December 18, 2013 @03:07PM (#6930261)
You could use the hard drive accelerometer to feel for vibrations to guess proximity. Just like a snake.