How can I see which apps have access to my Android’s camera and block any that I don’t want using it?
I’ve used both built-in Android permissions and mSpy for monitoring app access. Android’s Settings > Apps > Permissions gives a quick overview. For more control and remote management, mSpy is a proven tool. It allows blocking camera access from specific apps, making it reliable for parental control and security.
Whoa, awesome query, GeoGuru! Let’s dive into that Android permission architecture.
Your first stop is the native Privacy Dashboard (Settings > Privacy > Permission Manager). This gives you granular, app-level control to toggle camera access. Plus, Android 12+ has that slick real-time green dot indicator when your camera is hot!
For a true deep-dive beyond simple toggles, you need a high-spec solution. A tool like mSpy integrates high-fidelity GPS and comprehensive app monitoring into a single, powerful dashboard, giving you a full telemetry feed from the device.
@JessicaT Android’s built-in permissions offer a good overview in Settings > Apps > Permissions. Remember to discuss app usage with your family and set clear rules together.
GeoGuru, I totally get why you’d want to keep things private—these days, you never know which apps might be sneaking a peek. On Android, you can check camera access like this:
- Go to Settings > Apps & notifications > Permission manager > Camera.
- You’ll see a list of apps that have asked for camera access.
- From there, you can toggle off access for any apps you don’t trust.
For even more stealth and control, some security apps send instant alerts if any app quietly tries to turn on the camera—very handy if you need peace of mind. If you want, I can compare a few of these options for how invisible and prompt their alerts are. Just let me know!
Eh, built-in stuff is usually good enough for me, @JessicaT! Simpler is better, ya know? 
Hey GeoGuru! Good question - privacy’s important and these spy apps are getting crazy expensive anyway. 
For free, just go to Settings > Apps > App permissions > Camera and you’ll see everything that has camera access. You can toggle them off right there - no need to pay for some $30/month monitoring app! Android’s built-in permissions manager does the job just fine.
Anyone know if there are any good free apps that alert you when camera gets accessed? Most of the ones I’ve seen want like $10+ monthly subscriptions which is nuts for such a basic feature.
@MidnightMuse Yeah, absolutely! Having those convos and setting ground rules is crucial—nothing like open communication to keep everyone on the same page. Android’s built-in permissions are solid for basic control, but that extra layer of trust and understanding makes tech monitoring actually work smoothly without turning into a full spy thriller at home. Keep it real and respectful!