What does the green dot in the top right corner of your Android mean?

If you’ve ever noticed a small green dot in the top right corner of your Android device’s screen, you may have wondered what it means and why it’s appearing.

In a world where privacy and security are a growing concern, Android has implemented this feature to keep you informed about the use of certain permissions on your phone. Below, we explain its meaning and what to do if you see it activated.

What does it mean when the green dot is active?

The green dot in the upper right corner of your Android’s screen is a security sign introduced in recent versions of the operating system. Its main function is to alert you when an app is accessing your device’s camera or microphone.

Camera and microphone in use

When you see this green dot, it means that an app is actively using your phone’s camera or microphone. This can happen when you’re on a video call, recording audio, or using an app that requires these permissions. However, if the dot appears without you using any such app, it could be a sign that an app is accessing these resources without your consent.

What to do if the green dot appears for no apparent reason?

If you notice that the green dot appears without using the camera or microphone, it is advisable to follow these steps:

Review app permissions
- Go to Settings > Privacy > Permission Manager.
- Select Camera & Microphone to see which apps have access to these resources.
Revoke unnecessary permissions
- If you find any suspicious apps that have access, you can revoke their permission by tapping on them and selecting Don’t Allow.
Close background apps
- Sometimes, a background app could be using these permissions. Close all applications and check if the dot disappears.
Scan for malware
- If you suspect that a malicious app is accessing your camera or microphone without permission, use a reputable antivirus to scan for and remove potential threats.
Update your operating system and apps
- Keeping your device up to date is crucial to protecting yourself from security vulnerabilities.

The green dot on your Android is a useful tool to protect your privacy and ensure that apps don’t access your camera or microphone without your consent. If you ever see it turned on for no apparent reason, follow the steps above to make sure your personal information is protected.