Google is warning Android users that apps may be spying on them.
And it revealed a new feature in the new "Android 12" system that alerts users when the microphone or camera is activated.
This feature was added by Google to phones in the latest update to the “Android 12” system, which is similar to the warning already present on the “iPhone” devices of the company “Apple” (Apple).
So, if you don't get this latest Android update, you won't be able to see it.
The new feature appears in the upper-right corner of the screen, where you can see the camera or microphone icon when an app tries to access either of them, respectively.
The feature prevents apps from being surreptitiously listening, or even viewing through the camera.
You can also see a permanent history of which apps have access to your camera, microphone, or location, as this information is available in the new privacy dashboard within Settings.
It is now also possible to completely deactivate the microphone and camera via the phone through the settings section.
It is worth noting that seeing these symbols does not necessarily mean that an espionage operation has occurred.
Sometimes, the app really needs to use the camera, like the Instagram app.
But if you notice that your camera is being used by a strange app, it could mean that you are being spied on.
Internet experts have discovered countless apps that have been able to improperly access the camera on Android phones, so make sure you are using Android version 12, and stay wary of any malware.
And if you suspect something is wrong, you should check the permissions of the app in the settings.
For example, you can deny certain apps access to your microphone or camera.
And if you are worried, you can delete the app completely.