Have you ever talked about something and then seen an ad for it moments later? You’re not alone—and new research suggests your devices might be listening more than you think.
A recent study reveals that laptop microphones could be picking up audio even when the device appears to be turned off. Researchers found that due to software vulnerabilities, certain laptops may still be capable of capturing sound—including through walls—raising serious privacy concerns.
Many users aren’t aware that microphones and other sensors can remain active unless completely disabled. Experts recommend turning off microphones when not in use, updating software regularly, and even physically covering microphones for added security.
We asked contributors Doug and Jamie Baker for their take.
Doug said, “We’ve always been a little concerned. That’s why we shut our devices all the way down at night. But if someone wants to eavesdrop on us, they’re going to get bored pretty quickly.”
Jamie added, “Are you kidding? They’ll never get bored listening to me. But seriously, it’s scary. Your show is opening our eyes to a world I didn’t even know existed. You think you have privacy—but you really don’t.”
The concern isn’t just about ads or marketing. It’s about how much of our daily lives can be accessed without us realizing it. “If you think you have privacy,” legal analyst and TV personality Leo Terrell once said, “you have no privacy.”
When asked how they protect themselves, Jamie said, “We have a great IT guy and I change my passwords often. But it’s about being mindful. This is your personal information—we can’t afford to be sloppy.”
Doug even shared a strange moment. “One time, Jamie and I were talking on the phone and suddenly a woman’s voice in Spanish came on the line—then hung up. That freaked us out.”
Bottom line: as technology becomes more embedded in everyday life, staying vigilant about your digital privacy isn’t just smart—it’s essential.
Explore: NBCPalmSprings.com, where we are connecting the Valley.
By: Fred Roggin
June 21, 2025
