Have you ever worked from a coffee shop in Acworth or taken a video call on the train from Cartersville—only to feel like someone was reading your screen?

You’re not being paranoid. Digital eavesdropping is a real concern, especially when working on sensitive business documents or client information. And now, Windows 11 may soon give you an extra layer of protection.

👀 Introducing Onlooker Detection: Smart Privacy from Microsoft

Microsoft is reportedly testing a new privacy feature for Windows 11 called Onlooker Detection. As the name suggests, it helps detect when someone is peeking at your screen—and quietly warns you or dims the display to shield sensitive content.

This builds on Windows' existing Presence Sensing technology, which already dims or locks your device when you walk away. But now, with the new Human Presence Detection (HPD) sensor found in many newer laptops, your device can spot more than just you. It can detect them—the digital nosy neighbors you didn’t invite to your workspace.

🧠 How It Works

If your laptop includes presence-sensing hardware (common in devices using Intel, AMD, or Qualcomm chips), Windows 11 will be able to:

  • Dim your screen automatically if a stranger’s face is detected nearby.
  • Send a discreet alert notifying you someone might be watching.
  • Maintain your visual privacy without interrupting your workflow.

To check if your device has this feature, go to Settings > System > Power & battery and look for Presence Sensing options.

While Microsoft hasn’t fully rolled out this feature yet, it’s already appeared in Windows Insider builds—indicating it could arrive in a future update very soon.

📈 Why This Matters for Metro Atlanta Businesses

Whether your business operates from a coworking space in Canton or you’re managing remote employees across Metro Atlanta, data privacy is non-negotiable. A single moment of exposure can lead to compromised client data, regulatory headaches, and costly reputational damage.

Cybersecurity is no longer just about firewalls and antivirus software—it’s about proactive protection, especially in hybrid work environments.

At Custom Technologies, Inc., we help Metro Atlanta business owners stay one step ahead of evolving digital threats by providing smart solutions and secure technology consulting.

💡 Is Your Team Equipped for the Future of Privacy?

If features like Onlooker Detection sound useful—it’s because they are. But they’re just the beginning.

From Windows security upgrades to employee training and data protection policies, our experts can help you implement end-to-end safeguards that actually work.

📞 Need help reviewing your laptops, security settings, or remote work policies? Let’s talk.

🔐 Let us manage your network so you can manage your business.