Blog | G5 Cyber Security

Screen Recording: Can Someone Record Your Screen?

G5 Cyber Security

TL;DR

Yes, it’s possible for someone to record your screen without you knowing, but it depends on what software they use and how your computer is set up. There are ways to check and prevent this.

How Screen Recording Works

Screen recording captures everything visible on your display. This can be done through built-in operating system features, third-party applications, or even malicious software. The key difference lies in whether you’ve given permission for the recording to happen.

Can Someone Record Your Screen Without Permission?

  1. Malware/Spyware: This is the most concerning scenario. Malware can install screen recorders without your knowledge and send recordings to a third party.
  2. Remote Access Tools: If someone has remote access to your computer (e.g., through TeamViewer, AnyDesk), they *can* record your screen. You would usually have been prompted to allow this access initially.
  3. Browser-Based Recording: Some websites can request permission to record your screen for features like video conferencing or online demonstrations. You’ll typically see a prompt asking for approval.

How to Check if You’re Being Screen Recorded

It’s difficult to be 100% certain, but here are some things to look for:

  1. Check Running Processes: Look in your Task Manager (Windows) or Activity Monitor (macOS) for suspicious processes. Pay attention to anything using a lot of CPU or network resources that you don’t recognise.
    • Windows: Press Ctrl+Shift+Esc to open Task Manager. Look under the ‘Processes’ tab.
    • macOS: Open Activity Monitor (Applications > Utilities). Look under the ‘CPU’ and ‘Memory’ tabs.
  2. Screen Recording Indicators:
    • Windows 10/11: A small red dot appears in the system tray when screen recording is active (if using the built-in Game Bar). However, this only applies to recordings made with that specific tool.
    • macOS: A camera icon appears in the menu bar during a screen recording.
  3. Antivirus/Anti-Malware Scan: Run a full system scan with a reputable antivirus program. This is your best defense against malicious software. 
    # Example command for running a scan with ClamAV (Linux)
    clamscan -r /home/user --infected --remove
  4. Network Monitoring: Use network monitoring tools to see if any unusual data is being sent from your computer. This requires some technical knowledge.

How to Prevent Unauthorised Screen Recording

  1. Keep Your Software Updated: Regularly update your operating system, browser, and other software to patch security vulnerabilities.
  2. Use Strong Passwords & Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Protect your accounts from unauthorised access.
  3. Be Careful What You Click: Avoid clicking on suspicious links or downloading files from untrusted sources.
  4. Review App Permissions: Regularly check the permissions granted to apps on your computer and revoke any unnecessary ones.
    • Windows: Settings > Privacy & Security > App permissions
    • macOS: System Preferences > Security & Privacy > Privacy
  5. Disable Remote Access (If Not Needed): If you don’t use remote access tools, disable them completely.
  6. Use a Screen Recording Blocker (With Caution): Some software claims to block screen recording attempts. However, these aren’t foolproof and can sometimes interfere with legitimate applications.

Cyber security Best Practices

Remember that staying safe online requires vigilance. Be aware of the risks and take proactive steps to protect your privacy.

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