Webcams are built-in on nearly all new laptops. And they are standard equipment on many desktops.

They’re great tools, but remember this: These are cameras in your home. Like many things connected to the Internet, they can be hijacked.

This isn’t a hypothetical danger. It has happened. Everyone should protect against it.

I’m not talking about spycams. These are cameras hidden somewhere in other objects. They do exist. Read this tip if you’re interested in that kind of spy tech.

How does this work?

Certain programs allow people to access Webcams remotely. Yawcam is one such program. It can be very useful for monitoring your home while you’re away. But it could be dangerous in the hands of voyeurs.

Programs like Yawcam have to be installed directly on your computer. That means a voyeur would need physical access to it. This is the least likely scenario. But always be careful with whom you let use your computer.

Malware also is a problem. It could show up in spam e-mail. Or, you could be tricked into downloading it. The malware could hijack your Webcam. Quality security programs will help you defend against malware. My Security Center has everything you need, free.