As of: February 21, 2024, 5:10 a.m
By: Natascha Berger
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The federal government will send a data protection package upon request.
The so-called “Top Secret” box is available to everyone free of charge.
Children in particular should be protected.
Berlin – Many people tape off their laptop or smartphone cameras to protect their privacy and their own data from cybercriminals.
However, stickers are often used for camera covers, which leave behind adhesive residue and can damage the camera in the long term.
Other people, however, spend money on covers from the manufacturers themselves.
What few people know, however, is that in order to avoid exactly this, the Federal Ministry for Family, Senior Citizens, Women and Youth (BMSFJ) sends out the so-called “Top Secret” package.
And it’s even free.
Camera on laptop or cell phone not covered?
These hacker dangers are lurking
While the webcam on the laptop or the selfie camera on the smartphone serves many good purposes, the small, usually integrated camera also poses dangers.
Hackers can use spy software to gain access to the device and activate the internal cameras remotely.
Simply clicking on links or email attachments is often enough.
The device becomes infected with a virus or malware, malicious software.
This often goes unnoticed by the end user.
Hackers can observe people in private moments and gain access to sensitive data.
Many people cover the laptop camera with post-its - this can permanently damage the camera.
© IMAGO/xYayimagesx
The federal government's free data protection and privacy gadget is also intended to protect children
The federal government's gadget wants to counteract such attacks on privacy with a package of materials.
“Safer on the internet with webcam stickers” is written on the webcam sticker card, which can be requested free of charge from the BMSFJ.
The “Top Secret” package is intended to appeal primarily to families where children sometimes surf on their parents’ laptops or cell phones.
To avoid unwanted camera activity, the stickers can be attached to the device.
Federal government webcam stickers are made from special material
What's special: The stickers were made from special material.
This means the data protection gadget can be used multiple times and easily cleaned with water.
There are several stickers in different sizes in the box so that they can be used for different devices.
By the way: You can also quickly ensure more privacy on WhatsApp with four simple steps.
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The stickers look like smileys.
Anyone who would like to use the covers for themselves or their children can order the reusable stickers online and free of charge from the Federal Ministry.
However, due to high demand, according to the ministry's website, the offer may be temporarily unavailable.
It should also be noted that a maximum of ten “Top Secret” packages can be ordered.
Only authorities or public institutions can order more than ten copies.