my video camera is blocked by some unknown app

[strom151]

My video cam is blocked by some unknown app. It had been working perfectly well before

[Raj_05]

Hi @strom151,

Welcome to HP Support Community.

Thank you for posting your query, I will be glad to help you.

If your HP laptop's camera is blocked by an unknown app, it could be due to privacy settings, app permissions, or interference from a specific program. Here's how to troubleshoot and resolve the issue.

Check Camera Privacy Settings

Windows Settings:

• Press Win + I to open Settings.
• Go to Privacy & security > Camera.
• Ensure Camera access is enabled.
• Scroll down to Let apps access your camera and ensure it's turned on.
• Ensure the specific app you are using (e.g., Zoom, Teams) has permission to access the camera.

Third-Party Antivirus/Privacy Apps:

• Some antivirus programs block camera access for privacy. Check the app’s settings and ensure the camera is not blocked.

Close Apps That May Be Using the Camera

Task Manager:

• Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
• Look for apps that might be using the camera (e.g., Skype, Zoom, etc.) and end the task for these apps.

Restart Your PC:

• A simple restart can resolve issues caused by apps not releasing the camera properly.

Test the Camera

Camera App:

• Open the built-in Camera app (search for "Camera" in the Start menu).
• If the camera works here, the issue is likely app-specific.

External Apps:

• Test with apps like Zoom, Teams, or Skype to confirm functionality.

Update Camera Driver

Device Manager:

• Press Win + X and select Device Manager.
• Expand Imaging Devices or Cameras.
• Right-click your camera and select Update driver.
• Choose Search automatically for updated driver software.

HP Support Assistant:

• Use the HP Support Assistant to check for and install updated drivers.

[Raj_05]

Check for Conflicting Software

• Certain apps, like third-party video conferencing tools, can block the camera.
  • Temporarily disable or uninstall any recently installed software that uses the camera.
  • If you suspect malware, run a full system scan using Windows Defender or another trusted antivirus program.

Reset Camera App

Reset App:

• Go to Settings > Apps > Installed apps.
• Search for Camera, select it, and click Advanced options.
• Click Reset.

Reinstall the App:

• If resetting doesn’t work, uninstall and reinstall the Camera app.

Disable/Enable Camera

1. Device Manager:
   • Open Device Manager.
   • Right-click your camera and select Disable device.
   • Wait a moment, then re-enable the camera.

BIOS Settings

• In rare cases, the camera may be disabled in the BIOS.
  • Restart your laptop and press the required key (e.g., F10 or Esc) to enter the BIOS.
  • Look for settings related to the camera and ensure it is enabled.

System Restore (Optional)

• If the issue started recently, use System Restore to revert to a point when the camera was working.
  • Search for System Restore in the Start menu.
  • Follow the instructions to restore your system.

I hope this helps.

Take care and have a good day.

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Alden4

HP Support