The app's interface is simple and easy to use, although as a free project it isn't exactly graphically polished. This allows you to detect malware that 'piggybacks' on legitimate uses of the camera, such as tools that activate when you make a video call and allow a third party to intercept it. You can choose to allow or block particular processes, letting legitimate applications through and stymieing attempts to hijack your hardware.

OverSight not only lets you know when the camera and microphone are active, it lets you know which process is activating the camera. If the devices are turning on when you're not around, or when you don't tell them to, it could be a sign that your computer has malware running on it. You can then directly intervene and either allow the webcam or microphone access (for legitimate use), or deny it (for theoretical illegitimate use). This app simply keeps track of times when the camera and microphone become active. Once installed, Oversight is small and lightweight running quietly in the background, and it will alert you anytime the Mac microphone or webcam FaceTime camera are attempting to be activated.

Harmful software installed on your computer without your knowledge - called 'malware' - can activate these devices to violate your privacy. OverSight is a free security application that monitors your computer's webcam and microphone.

Softonic review Prevent intruders from recording you with OverSight

Oversight app for mac