Is Your Webcam Being Used Right Now?
Test each camera on your device, see whether it can be opened and find out instantly if another app is holding it. No video is recorded or uploaded.
What the Camera Privacy Check Reveals
A quick way to diagnose camera-in-use problems and privacy concerns
Occupied Detection
Each camera is opened briefly - if the device is busy, the error is reported clearly
Permission State
See whether the browser has permission to use the camera, or is still asking
Per-Device Results
Built-in and USB cameras are listed separately so you can find the blocked one
Error Explanations
Every status comes with a plain-language explanation and the next step to take
Privacy Guidance
Learn where to check OS-level camera permissions and physical shutters
No Recording
Video frames are never stored, displayed or transmitted during the check
How to Check If Your Camera Is In Use
Four steps to identify and fix an occupied camera
Allow camera access
When the browser asks for permission, choose Allow so devices can be tested
Run the check
Click "Check All Cameras" to open each device for a moment and release it
Read the status
Available means the camera is free; In use means another application is holding it
Close the blocking app
Quit the app shown by your OS camera indicator, then re-run the check to confirm
Browser Compatibility
Camera inspection relies on getUserMedia and the Permissions API
Chrome
Full SupportFull support including permission state
Edge
Full SupportFull support on Chromium-based Edge
Firefox
Full SupportFull support; permission state may be hidden
Safari
Full SupportSupported on macOS and iOS 14.3 or newer
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about camera usage and privacy
How can I tell if my camera is being used?
Most laptops show a hardware LED while the camera is active, and Windows and macOS display an indicator in the taskbar or menu bar. This page adds a direct test: it tries to open each camera and reports whether the device is free.
What does NotReadableError mean?
The browser reached the device but the operating system refused to share it, usually because another program holds an exclusive lock. Closing the other app or restarting the browser normally resolves it.
Does this page record or upload video?
No. The camera stream is opened only long enough to confirm access and is stopped immediately. No frames are drawn, saved or sent anywhere.
Why do camera names appear empty?
Browsers hide device labels until camera permission is granted. Allow access once and the real names appear in the list.
The camera shows as available, but my app cannot use it. Why?
Some applications request exclusive access or specific resolutions. A camera can be free for a browser test yet still fail in an app that asks for a format the device cannot provide.
How do I block camera access completely?
Use the browser site settings to block camera permission, disable camera access in your OS privacy settings, and use a physical shutter or unplug external cameras when they are not needed.