Audit Camera and Microphone Access in Windows 11

Windows 11 includes built-in privacy auditing features that log exactly when desktop programs and Store apps access your microphone or webcam. This guide explains how to check the recent activity history for both devices, identify real-time access through the taskbar, and revoke permissions for unauthorized applications.

How to Check Recent Camera Access History

To see a detailed timestamped log of which applications have recently used your webcam:

  1. Open the Start Menu and select Settings (or press Win + I).
  2. Click on Privacy & security in the left sidebar.
  3. Scroll down to the App permissions section and click Camera.
  4. Click on the Recent activity drop-down menu near the top of the page.
  5. Review the list of apps along with the exact dates and times they accessed your camera.

How to Check Recent Microphone Access History

Windows 11 tracks audio recording access separately from video hardware:

  1. Open Settings (Win + I).
  2. Select Privacy & security from the left navigation pane.
  3. Under App permissions, select Microphone.
  4. Click the Recent activity section to expand the log.
  5. View the list of applications, including the exact timestamps of their latest microphone usage.

Monitoring Real-Time Hardware Access

Windows 11 also provides real-time alerts whenever your microphone or camera is active:

Managing and Revoking App Permissions

If you notice suspicious or unnecessary access during your audit, you can restrict permissions immediately: