Spyware can listen in. This is the Windows setting I always change | usagoldmines.com

Malware can gain access to more than just documents and apps on your PC. Get infected with a certain kind of virus, and your camera and microphone are fair game, too.

You can minimize part of the headache by disabling unused microphones. For example, maybe you have both a dedicated microphone and a webcam with a built-in mic connected—if you disable the webcam’s mic and activate the standalone mic’s mute button, that should block any eavesdropping.

Added bonus: You’ll minimize the annoyance of starting Zoom and Teams calls with the wrong mic active. (I swear, for me it’s every. single. time.)

How to disable a microphone in Windows

PCWorld

Head to the Sound settings in Windows (Settings > System > Sound). Under Input, click on the audio device you want to disable—this could be a webcam, a headset, or something else.

In the individual device’s settings, find General > Audio. Click on the Don’t allow button.

Why not just disconnect the cable?

Unplugging an audio device from your PC is a valid strategy if you use it rarely. But otherwise, you may run into one of two problems:

1 – You can’t use the device because the audio input is mixed with other signals and routed over a single cable. (Ex: webcam)

2 – Your USB port wears out from frequent use.

The second problem is fixable by buying a USB hub that has individual on/off switches. But turning off Windows’ access to a mic is free.

Keep antivirus active on your PC!

You can disable your microphone(s) as a precaution, but also take steps to avoid getting spyware in the first place. Let your antivirus program scan your system regularly, and avoid shady websites and downloads. Also keep an eye on your browser extensions and apps installed—sometimes, legit ones can turn bad right under your nose.