Our Information Security team share advice on what to do if you’re worried about using Zoom.
Millions of people have discovered Zoom as a way to stay connected with their friends and family during this time - even governments have been seen using it.
We use Zoom as our preferred method for voice and video calls and have done for some time. Like us, you were probably concerned to see reports in the news about vulnerabilities within the Zoom platform and alleged practices of capturing and sharing data with external parties, including Facebook.
As a result, some businesses have now blocked the use of Zoom within their organisations. But is Zoom safe to use? And what should you do if you want to carry on using it?
Our Legal and Information Security teams spoke to Zoom to understand their position directly. We’ve been reassured by our contacts at Zoom that our set-up has not resulted in any breaches in the way client data has been handled. We also understand that they have since taken steps to strengthen the security and compliance of the platform and, following our risk assessment, are satisfied with their response. We are continuing to use Zoom and will monitor any further security developments closely.
There are some amazing benefits to using video conferencing with clients and colleagues. If you still want to use Zoom, our Information Security team has the following advice which we’ve shared with our teams. This is best practice for any video conference tool you use.
What to do if you want to continue using Zoom safely:
Update to the latest version
Zoom’s security problems have reinforced the message that whatever you use, you should always use the latest version. Zoom has since released an update which addresses several security issues so if you are continuing to use it, make sure all your users update to the latest version at once. For help doing that, check out this article from Zoom.
Check Zoom invites are genuine before you click
If you receive a Zoom invite, make sure you are accepting a real Zoom invite and not clicking on a phishing email. To do this, hover over the link to see the URL before you click on it. Look out for spelling mistakes or anything unusual in the URL. If in doubt, don’t click on it and check with the host.
Set up a password for your meetings
To make your Zoom meetings more secure, change your settings so that a password is required. This will ensure only people who have been invited can enter your meeting. For help doing this, see this article from Zoom. We’re also big fans of the Waiting Room feature which lets you admit your guests in one by one - more on this here.
Don’t share your Zoom information on social media
When you share your meeting link it becomes public and anyone with the link can join your meeting so only share your Zoom ID with people you want to meet with.
Want more on this topic?
We love the convenience of video conferencing as an effective way to connect with clients and teams. If you’re interested in finding out more about using video conferencing within your business, you might be interested in:
Our article ‘Making the most of online meetings’ on the Iress Community.
Our live webinar, The Virtual Adviser, taking place on Thursday 16 April via, you guessed it, Zoom. Get the details and register here.
Coronavirus support
For free resources and support to help guide you through the coronavirus crisis, including tips and advice from our team on how to work effectively and securely from home, visit our dedicated hub.
