Abstract: Methods and apparatus for providing privacy during video or other communication across a network. In one embodiment, a system is disclosed wherein digital video camera is coupled to a network via a processing server. The digital video camera generates one or more digital images that are processed by the processing server, including identifying and obstructing any artifacts (e.g., faces, hands, etc.) in the images. The processing also optionally includes the tracking of the artifacts in the images as they move within the image, as well as search for new faces that may enter the field of view. In another embodiment of the invention, video conferencing is performed over a network between two or more users. Images are generated by digital video cameras and processed by video servers. During the videoconference, one or more users may select a video (and audio) muting mode during which any artifacts of interest in the images (or portions thereof) are identified and obscured.