If you own an Android smartphone, hackers may be able to use a security flaw to spy on you.

A firm called Checkmarx discovered a bug that could allow a hacker to take control of your phone's camera.

That means someone could remotely take photos and even record videos without your permission.

Samsung and Google phones appear to be most at risk from the security flaw.

Hundreds of millions of smartphone users could be affected.

Researchers say hackers could access your stored videos and photos and operate the cambera even when the app is closed.

Checkmarx alerted Google and Samsung to the flaw over the summer.

Both companies have confirmed the bug and released security patches.

The way to protect yourself, both companies say, is to make sure you update your phone with the latest software.