Computer spyware took on a heightened dimension as a young man was arrested for his high-tech voyeuristic ways. Apparently someone who is handy with computers, our protagonist took to illegally installing spyware on the laptops of women who approached him for assistance with their machines. The unauthorized software secreted onto his victims' computers allowed him to snap pictures from the built-in Webcam now found in practically all new laptops. 

I admit that I have always been wary of the Webcam built into the lid of my laptop--which do I bring everywhere with me. After all, the system administrator and programmer in me know just how easy it would be to craft a custom malware not in the virus definitions of existing antivirus products. With some preparations, I reckon it will take less than 30 seconds of unattended access to an unlocked desktop to plant nefarious software.

Of course, I just keep an eye out for the tiny LED light that comes on whenever the camera is activated. However, in cases of less savvy users who send in their laptops for servicing, I wonder just how hard it would be for some immoral technician to paste some epoxy over the said indicators, or somehow disable the LED itself.

Perhaps it would be a good idea to just paste a stick tape over the built-in Webcam. Would you consider doing that? - Paul [1]