Mac camera will not turn off

I have disabled the camera for all apps in Privacy and Security settings. I've rebooted the computer. I've scanned the computer for malware but came up empty. Still, the camera remains stubbornly on — or at least the green light stays lit. I'm stumped. Can you suggest a solution?

iMac (M1, 2021)

Posted on Sep 1, 2023 10:19 PM

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7 replies

Sep 3, 2023 5:03 AM in response to marconopolo

Start up your Mac with Apple silicon in safe mode

  1. On your Mac, choose Apple menu  > Shut Down.
  2. Wait for your Mac to shut down completely. A Mac is completely shut down when the screen is black and any lights (including in the Touch Bar) are off.
  3. Press and hold the power button on your Mac until “Loading startup options” appears.
  4. Select a volume.
  5. Press and hold the Shift key, then click Continue in Safe Mode.
  6. The computer restarts automatically. When the login window appears, you should see “Safe Boot” in the menu bar.


Reset NVRAM on your Mac - Apple Support (CA)


If you have a Mac with Apple silicon

Find out if you have a Mac with Apple silicon

The steps to reset NVRAM don't apply to Mac computers with Apple silicon, and aren't needed on those computers.

Sep 3, 2023 4:13 AM in response to marconopolo

As a last attempt to fix this, you could try resetting the NVRAM (non-volatile random-access memory) on a Mac can help fix various issues related to system settings and configurations. While it's not a universal solution for all Mac problems, it can address the following types of issues:

  1. Display-related problems: NVRAM stores settings for display resolution, refresh rate, and color profiles. If you're experiencing issues with your display, such as incorrect resolution, color problems, or external monitor recognition problems, resetting the NVRAM may help.
  2. Audio and sound issues: NVRAM also stores audio-related settings, including sound volume and output devices. If you're facing problems with sound, like no audio or incorrect output device selection, resetting NVRAM may resolve these issues.
  3. Startup disk selection: Sometimes, Macs may get confused about which drive to boot from, especially if you have multiple bootable drives connected. Resetting NVRAM can reset the default startup disk and resolve boot issues.
  4. Keyboard and mouse settings: If you've customized keyboard and mouse preferences and are experiencing problems with these devices, resetting NVRAM can revert these settings to their defaults, potentially resolving the issues.
  5. Wi-Fi and network problems: Although less common, some users have reported that resetting NVRAM helped resolve Wi-Fi connectivity issues. This might be because network settings are stored in NVRAM.
  6. Battery and power management: In rare cases, NVRAM may store settings related to battery and power management. If your Mac is experiencing issues with battery life, power management, or sleep/wake behavior, resetting NVRAM could potentially help.
  7. Firmware password issues: If you've set a firmware password on your Mac and have forgotten it, you can reset it by clearing the NVRAM. This should be done with caution, as it requires access to recovery mode and proof of ownership.


I know 'camera' is not listed but it might help. Especially as Audio & Sound (used by the camera) is included.


It's important to note that resetting NVRAM should not be your go-to solution for every problem. It's typically a troubleshooting step when you suspect that a specific issue is related to stored system settings. Before resetting NVRAM, you should also consider other troubleshooting steps and backup your important data.

If resetting NVRAM doesn't resolve your problem, you may need to explore other solutions, such as software updates, hardware diagnostics, or seeking assistance from Apple support or a certified technician for more complex issues.





Sep 4, 2023 4:51 PM in response to Owl-53

The problem seems to have solved itself. I wound up calling Apple Support. While the tech was on the phone with me the camera light suddenly went off. The tech speculated that some of my prior troubleshooting may have been successful but just took time to register. Whatever the explanation, my computer seems to be back to normal.


Many thanks to Knowledge Seeker and P. Phillips for taking the time to offer your thoughtful suggestions.

This thread has been closed by the system or the community team. You may vote for any posts you find helpful, or search the Community for additional answers.

Mac camera will not turn off

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