How to Disable Camera on Chromebook to Boost Privacy

Key takeaways:

• Use a physical cover or tape for instant camera block
• Chromebook settings let you turn off camera access for apps
• Only allow camera for apps you trust

So, you’re worried about your Chromebook camera spying on you? I get it. Chrome OS is always online, and you never really know what’s running in the background. If you want to keep things private, you’ve got a couple of easy ways to shut down that camera—no tech skills needed.

I’ll walk you through both the old-school and digital ways to block your camera. By the end, you’ll know exactly how to lock down your Chromebook so nobody can peek in. Privacy is real, and you deserve it.

Physical camera covers are the fastest way to stay private

Let’s start with the simplest move: just cover the camera. Grab a cheap webcam cover—those sliding plastic things—or even use a piece of tape if you’re in a hurry. You can find these covers all over online shops, and they stick right over your camera lens. Slide it open when you need to hop on a video call, close it when you’re done. No software hack can beat a physical block. Tape works too, but it’s messy and can leave gunk behind, so I’m all about the sliding covers. 🕵️‍♂️

If you’re curious about other Chromebook hardware tricks, check out does a Chromebook have a USB port.

Chromebook settings let you control camera access for each app

If you want more control, Chrome OS actually lets you turn off camera access for all or specific apps. Here’s how to do it:

• Hit the launcher and open Settings
• On the left, tap Privacy and security
• Go to Privacy controls
• Click Camera access

From here, you can block camera access for everything, or just pick which apps can use it. If you flip the switch to off, even if an app tries to use your camera, it won’t work. Try opening the Camera app after blocking access—you’ll get a blank screen. That’s how you know it’s working.

If you only want certain apps to use your camera, just toggle those on and leave the rest off. This is a pretty rare feature—most laptops don’t give you this much control.

Why you should care about camera privacy on Chromebook

Chromebooks are always connected, and a lot of apps want camera access. Maybe you use Google Meet, Zoom, or some random web app for school or work. But you never know if a shady extension or sneaky website is watching. Blocking the camera when you don’t need it is the easiest way to avoid any oops moments. 😳

If you’re interested in more ways to keep your Chromebook private, check out how to disable guest mode on Chromebook and go incognito on Chromebook.

Extra tips for Chromebook privacy and security

• Always keep your Chromebook updated (how to update Google Chrome browser on Chromebook)
• Remove apps you don’t use (how to delete apps on Chromebook)
• Lock your screen when you step away (lock Chromebook screen)
• Manage which sites and apps have permissions (manage notifications Chromebook)

Table: Camera privacy methods on Chromebook

What to do if your camera still turns on by itself

If you notice your camera light flickers on even after blocking access, you might have a rogue app or extension. Do a quick review of what’s installed. Remove anything you don’t trust. You can also reset your Chromebook if things get weird (how to restart Chromebook).

How to re-enable camera if you need it again

Want to jump on a video call? Just slide your camera cover open or go back into Settings and turn camera access back on for the app you need. Don’t forget to block it again when you’re done.

More Chromebook tips and guides

If you want to get more out of your Chromebook, check out these guides:

• How to take a screenshot on a Chromebook
• How to check Chromebook hardware specs
• Tips for speeding up Chromebook
• How to clear cache on Chromebook

FAQs

How do I physically block my Chromebook camera?

Just stick a webcam cover or tape over the lens. Slide it open when you need the camera, close it after. Easy and effective.

Can I block camera access for just one app?

Yes. Go to Settings > Privacy and security > Privacy controls > Camera access and toggle access for each app.

Will blocking camera in settings stop all apps from using it?

If you block camera access in settings, no app can use it until you turn it back on.

What if my camera light turns on by itself?

Check for weird apps or extensions. Remove anything you don’t trust. If it keeps happening, reset your Chromebook.

Is there a way to turn off the microphone too?

You can manage microphone access in the same Privacy controls section. For more, see turn on microphone Chromebook.