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I have been using the new version of edge for a while now and have come to notice every time it loads up the software tries to turn the webcam connected to the computer "ON".
As I do not use Skype or there is no reason for Edge to need the camera I find it unreasonale for Microsoft to think it has a right to spy on me at my computer by using the camera without asking.I have put black tape over the camera lens on every computer I own that has a camera ( 2 Desktops and 3 Laptops).
This begs me to wonder what other means Microsoft is using to spy on our computers without our consent, I do wonder if there are people who have computers in their bathrooms and do not know they are being watched via the pinhole camera on top of the screen or watching some ones daughter as she is doing her homework on her computer unaware the camera is looking down her cleavage.
Launching Microsoft Edge on Windows 10
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Many thanks Alex, Thank goodness they are onto it as it is still relentlessly trying to access the Webcam each time that 'Edge' is opened. (Thank goodness and all credit to Norton which stops it this end) I am sure that there are a huge amount of other people whom share my anxiety and will all be thankful when it is actually put right.
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If you are using Norton 360 you can take command of the Webcam and what it allows. Just click on 'Security' then the 'Safecam' icon where you will see TWO options 'Settings' & 'Access' . Click 'Access' where you will see any programmes that can access your Webcam together with a drop down list at the side of them in which you can select 'Ask' or 'Block' or 'Allow' and make your selection. I have mine on 'BLOCK' for Microsoft Edge and 'ASK' for my Webcam. Norton still pops out a message from the side though informing me that 'Microsoft Edge' has been BLOCKED each time but I like that - its VERY reassuring to know that Edge cannot get through at all especially when doing Online Banking and the like.
I hope this helps.
My settings are set for apps to request permission to access the webcam, and yet Edge is allowed to do it without asking me for permission. ??? Malware.... and it gives malware even more opportunity to create havoc.
Bottom line Peggy: You have no idea WHAT your software is doing behind the scenes. Computer viruses were around before the internet made them popular; several well known applications were - and probably still are - rolled out with hidden trojans and other malware.
Edge in particular seems to have many versions for different localities, some which allow the User to turn off camera access, others which don't have this option. Reading through this thread it also appears that even Microsoft doesn't fully know what's going on with Edge.
I still use Edge - but I'm glad I have Norton to block camera access. Hopefully (!) there's nothing else hidden in there.
Thank you very much!