Apple warns against using tape on MacBook camera

In a new support article, Apple advises users not to use a cover over the camera of the MacBook, MacBook Air, or MacBook Pro laptops. Many users have made it a habit to cover their laptop's camera with a piece of tape to limit privacy risks in the case of a computer virus infection or a hack.

However, Apple claims using a camera cover can damage your laptop's camera or display. The electronics manufacturer explains its laptops are designed to very tight tolerances and using a camera cover might damage the display of the clearance between the display and keyboard gets too big.

Apple adds that its MacBook cameras are engineered so they can't be turned on without the camera indicator light also turning on. There is no evidence that the indicator LED of recent MacBooks can be hacked.

In case of work environments that require a camera cover, Apple recommends to make sure that the camera cover is not thicker than an average piece of printer paper (0.1mm) or to remove the camera cover before closing the laptop. The firm also advises not to use camera covers that leave adhesive residue.