@Squedgehog 

Hi,

Welcome to TP-Link community. 

If the Privacy Mode turns on or off automatically:
    1. Go to Tapo app > Cameras tab > Home Mode or Away Mode to check if your camera is included. If so, preset configurations in Home/Away Mode may change Privacy Mode Status: How to edit Home and Away Mode for Tapo/Kasa Cameras and Doorbells on the Tapo app
    2. Go to Tapo app > Smart tab > Automation to check if any rules toggle Privacy Mode.

 If still the same, try these steps:
    1. Ensure both camera and Tapo app firmware are updated: How to update the firmware of the Tapo&Kasa devices on the Tapo App
    2. Reboot the camera.
    3. Reset and reconfigure the camera: How to Factory Reset Your Tapo Camera: Two Methods

Best Regards.