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As more and more companies shift to remote working, the use of video conferencing has skyrocketed in recent years. According to a report by Grand View Research, the global video conferencing market size is expected to reach USD 19.73 billion by 2030. However, with this increase in usage, concerns about the security of video conferencing have also risen. The truth is, many companies have turned to consumer-built options like Zoom and Skype, which have been found to have security vulnerabilities. From hacking to 'Zoom bombing' to eavesdropping, the security risks associated with video conferencing are real and should not be taken lightly.
Here, we’ll explore is video conferencing secure and the video conferencing security risks, including the reasons why companies should consider using a secure, enterprise-grade solution, instead of relying on consumer-built options. The stakes are high, and the consequences of a security breach can be catastrophic for companies of all sizes including fines, loss of reputation and sensitive data being breached.
The first and most obvious video conferencing security risks relate to malicious third parties hacking the call. As more and more companies use video conferencing, hackers are finding new ways to access these platforms and steal sensitive information. Consumer-built options like Zoom and Skype have been found to have vulnerabilities that allow hackers to access video conferences and steal sensitive information. In 2019, it was revealed Zoom had a hidden web server installed on user devices that meant the user could be added to call without permission, as well as enabling hackers to take control through Zoom of a user’s Apple Mac.
Another risk of video conferencing is the possibility of ‘Zoom bombing’. Zoom bombing is when an unauthorized person joins a video conference and disrupts it with inappropriate content. This can be anything from unauthorised images to hate speech and is now considered a cyber-crime. This is a serious concern for companies, as it can damage their reputation and lead to legal action.
Video conferencing can also be vulnerable to eavesdropping. This is when someone listens in on a video conference without the knowledge or consent of the participants. Eavesdropping can occur when hackers access the video conference or when the video conference is not properly encrypted.
A Zerify report found that 97% of IT professionals are concerned about protecting privacy and video conferencing data, with 92% reporting that they are aware of security vulnerabilities in video conferencing platforms. Given the security risks of video conferencing, it is clear that companies should consider using enterprise-grade solutions instead of consumer-built options. Here are a few reasons why:
Enterprise-grade solutions have better security features - Enterprise-grade video conferencing solutions have been built with security in mind. They use advanced encryption methods to protect against hacking and eavesdropping. They also have features like password protection and two-factor authentication to prevent unauthorized access.
Enterprise-grade solutions are more reliable - Consumer-built options like Zoom and Skype have been found to have reliability issues. This is particularly true during times of high usage, such as during the COVID-19 pandemic. Enterprise-grade solutions are built to handle high usage and are less likely to experience reliability issues.
Enterprise-grade solutions offer better support - When companies use enterprise-grade solutions, they have access to dedicated support teams who can help them with any issues that arise. This is not the case with consumer-built options, which often rely on community support.
In today's digital age, video conferencing has become an essential tool for organizations of all sizes. It allows teams to collaborate and communicate effectively, regardless of their location. However, with the rise of video conferencing usage, organizations must also consider the security risks associated with these platforms. Choosing a secure video platform is essential for organizations for several reasons:
Protection of sensitive information - Organizations handle sensitive information on a daily basis, such as financial data, customer information, and company strategies. A security breach on a video conferencing platform can lead to the loss of this information, resulting in financial loss and damage to the organization's reputation. Secure video platforms offer advanced encryption methods to protect against hacking and eavesdropping, ensuring the protection of sensitive information.
Compliance with regulations - Many organizations are required to comply with strict regulations, such as HIPAA and GDPR. These regulations require organizations to protect personal information and have strict guidelines for data storage and handling. Secure video platforms offer features such as data encryption, user authentication, and access controls, which ensure compliance with these regulations.
Better user experience - Secure video platforms offer a better user experience than consumer-built options. They are built to handle high usage and are less likely to experience reliability issues. They also offer features such as screen sharing, recording, and the ability to schedule meetings, which enhance the user experience.
Cost-effective - In the long run, secure video platforms can be cost-effective for organizations. Consumer-built options may seem cheaper initially, but they lack the security features and reliability of enterprise-grade solutions. Investing in a secure video platform can save organizations from the costs associated with a security breach, such as legal fees and damage to reputation.
Choosing a secure video platform is essential for organizations. It ensures the protection of sensitive information, compliance with regulations, a better user experience, and cost-effectiveness in the long run. Organizations should consider using enterprise-grade solutions for secure video communication, instead of consumer-built options that are not built with privacy by design.
At RealTyme, we provide a secure and trusted platform to collaborate and converse on video calls effortlessly. Our secure video conferencing uses E2EE at transit and at rest and is protected by invite-only circles. Only those that are intended to be on the call can access it, with full administrative control to ensure authorised users only. To learn more about using the RealTyme platform for improved collaboration and security, get started today.
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