Many apps on your phone ask for camera and microphone access. Some apps need it for video calls, voice messages, or scanning documents. But some apps may use these permissions silently. That is why it becomes very important to know how to check which apps using your camera and mic. Thankfully, both Android phones and iPhones already have built-in privacy tools. You don’t need to download anything extra. Once you understand these settings, you can easily protect your personal space. For now, let’s break this topic step by step in very simple language.
In this article, we will discuss the apps using your camera and mic, how they look, and recent access in iPhone.
Small dots on screen and what they actually mean
You might have noticed a small green or orange dot on the top of your phone screen. This dot is not random. It clearly means that some apps using your camera and mic. A green dot usually shows camera access, while an orange dot shows microphone access. This feature works in real time. That means whenever an app starts using these sensors, the dot appears instantly. Along with this, the dot disappears when the app stops using them. If you ever see this dot without opening any camera or calling app, you should be alert. This is the first warning sign your phone gives you.
Finding camera and mic activity history on Android
Android phones give a very clear history of camera and microphone usage. First, open Settings on your phone. After that, go to Privacy and then tap on Privacy Dashboard. Here, you will see options for apps using your camera and mic. Tap on any one of them. You will now see a timeline showing which app was used and at what time. Along with this, it also shows recent usage. This feature is very useful because you can quickly spot any app that looks strange. For now, Android users should definitely check this section regularly.
Checking recent camera and mic access on iPhone
On iPhone, Apple has made privacy settings very easy to understand. Whenever an apps using your camera and mic, you will see a green or orange dot near the battery area. To know which app it was, swipe down to open Control Center. Here, the app name will be shown at the top. Along with this, you can also go to Settings > Privacy & Security. Then open the camera or the Microphone. You will see a full list of apps that have access. From here, you can decide which app really needs permission and which one does not.
How to remove camera and mic permission from apps
In case you feel that apps using your camera and mic, you can simply get rid of them. On Android, go to Settings, Apps, then choose the app, and finally, Permissions. At this point, switch off camera or microphone access. In iPhone, open the privacy and security settings and select either the camera or microphone, and turn off an unwanted application. In addition to this, there is also an option of Allow only when using the app. At present, this is a less risky alternative to a full-time permit and prevents background abuse.
Also read: WhatsApp beta for iOS 26.1.10.73 is a beta version: what is new with cover photo privacy?
What to do when something looks unsafe
In case you find an unfamiliar apps using your camera and microphones, you need not be afraid. First, verify the name of the app and the time of usage. In case it remains ssuspicious take away its permissions at once. Uninstall the app completely, should there be na eed to do so. Together with this, do not install external apps in the Play Store or the App Store. It is good to always read app reviews prior to downloading. In the meantime, it is also highly important to keep your phone updated since security problems are resolved with updates. Threats of spying applications and misuse of unnecessary data may be avoided with a few cautious measures.
Final Thought
Understanding how to check which apps using your camera and mic is just the first step. You should also make it a habit to review permissions once a month. Don’t give access blindly to every app. Along with this, delete apps you no longer use. Fewer apps mean fewer risks. Also, pay attention to those green and orange dots. They are small but very powerful privacy signals. For now, staying aware is the best protection. Your apps use your camera and mic, so keep full control over them at all times.
Also read : how to Find Hidden Apps on Your Phone – Simple Guide for Everyone