Need help with my webcam. I think I might be hacked.

  • Thread starter Thread starter gtguhoij
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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on troubleshooting a flickering webcam issue, with the user employing Avira and Malwarebytes for security checks, which found no viruses. Key recommendations include adjusting the webcam settings to 50Hz or 60Hz anti-flicker based on location and using YAWCAM freeware for enhanced control. The issue appears to be software-related, as the flickering does not occur in applications like Skype, suggesting that the default camera app may have limitations. Users are advised to explore alternative camera applications and consider driver updates or hardware checks if problems persist.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of webcam settings, including anti-flicker options
  • Familiarity with YAWCAM freeware for webcam management
  • Knowledge of driver management for hardware devices
  • Basic troubleshooting skills for software applications
NEXT STEPS
  • Research how to adjust webcam settings in YAWCAM
  • Learn about updating and rolling back webcam drivers
  • Explore alternative camera applications for Windows
  • Investigate common software conflicts with webcam usage
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for users experiencing webcam issues, IT support personnel, and anyone interested in optimizing webcam performance and troubleshooting software conflicts.

gtguhoij
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TL;DR
I think I might be hacked. Can someone help? There is a video below that shows the problem.
I am using Avira and Malwarebytes and my firewall is on. It shows no viruses on avira or Malwarebytes.

At the very least can someone help me fix my webcam?

Here is the video. As you can see the webcam is flickering.



Thanks for the help

This picture shows the specs
 
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On the webcam control choose 50Hz or 60 Hz anti flicker depending upon your location. Also try a different output resolution and see if that makes a difference. I like YAWCAM freeware to play with camera if you don't have the manufacturer's stuff. It does look a bit strange.
 
The webcam is built into the pc. I just have 50Hz or 60 Hz.
 
gtguhoij said:
The webcam is built into the pc.
That doesn't mean anything. The application you are using to view the image should have settings you can adjust (what application is it?). If not, get another app with more adjustable settings to test.

What about this issue makes you think it is a hack?
 
My application is the camera app. I just push the windows button and search camera. I don't have very many settings. There is no flicker setting I will download https://www.yawcam.com/ and see if that works.

I did say I am not sure about the hacking though.

Thanks for the help so far.
 
Last edited:
Could be because of a faulty driver. Also try updating/rolling back the driver of the webcam.
 
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I updated the drivers no difference and for some reason it won't let me roll back the drivers. Any advice?
 
I think some of the internal cameras are internal USB connections so it may make sense to try an external USB camera and see if it also is screwing up
Of course it never hurts to reboot a few times. (the last refuge of the confused...)
 
I don't own a external camera and rather not spend the money are there any other options? I guess I could buy an webcam and return it. I manage to roll back the drivers and same problem persist. Just wanted to add when I use skype or some other application I don't see the flashing. I rebooted no effect.
 
Last edited:
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  • #10
It could be a hardware problem, or software problem. Since you are saying that there is no problem when you are using the webcam from other applications like Skype, it seems to be a software problem rather than hardware. Try installing some other camera apps; there are a lot available online.
 
  • #11
Did you already try giving it a gentle whack?
 
  • #12
etotheipi said:
Did you already try giving it a gentle whack?
In the '60s that sometimes helped temporarily to re-seat a vacuum tube ##\dots##
 
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  • #13
In my experience Skype is very "grabby". Make sure Skype is not running (tell it not to run in background or at start) and try the windows camera link. Did you try Yawcam? Pretty clearly this is an internal software issue and not likely the invasion of the camera snatchers.
 

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