Nowadays, communication is no longer through the phone as the old days. No matter where you work and what software / hardware you use to learn, the security is always very important.
When operating remote applications, it is important to adopt best practices to protect important information and user privacy from hackers who attempt to gain access to confidential information, or commit other malicious acts through any security vulnerabilities in remote applications.
What exactly do companies need to be aware of when it comes to using video conferencing software / hardware?
Video Conference Security Tip #1: Trustworthy and continuously updated software
For the purpose of security, you must avoid using software with security vulnerabilities and concerns. Currently, the commonly used and comparably secure video conferencing software on the market includes Google Meet, Microsoft Teams, Cisco Webex, etc.
Although experts in information security indicate that any software has vulnerabilities that could be attacked by hackers, the point is that software companies should fix vulnerabilities by continuously updating. Please remember to update your version regularly, not only for the latest features, but also to improve security and stability.
Download software from a trusted official website or App Store to avoid installing fake software or apps that may contain malware.
You may even use a business or enterprise edition to obtain more information security or privacy protection.
Video Conference Security Tip #2: Information security awareness and confirmation of information with caution
Promote the overall information security awareness of enterprises through regular promotion of relevant policies.
The first step is to strengthen the password related settings. It is recommended not to use birthday, phone number, and other information that is easy to crack as the password.
Stay alert at all times, and do not click on emails or links from unknown sources to avoid the possibility of being hacked, having your information stolen and viruses implanted. Check with the relevant personnel if you have any concerns.
Please provide links directly to the meeting and avoid sharing meeting links and identifiable information (ID) on public platforms and social environments, to prevent unrelated parties from joining and stealing confidential information from the meeting.
In addition to real-time updates, periodic backups are important to reduce losses in the event of an information security incident.
Video Conference Security Tip #3: Encryption-protected connections and devices
In addition to choosing safe equipment, systems, and video software, it is also necessary to ensure that the connection process is encryption-protected. Through high-strength encryption protocols, confidential and sensitive information breaches and eavesdropping are avoided. For example, use VPN encryption to connect to the Intranet.
However, since many data (personal accounts, chat history, or contact lists) may be stored on the external end, the relevant data should be encrypted, so that the acquirer will not be able to read the encrypted data if there is an accidental breach.
Comply with relevant information security regulations and standards, use specific information appliances and do not use public networks or free network connections, to reduce risks.
Finally, add password protection to the meeting to confirm the identity and access mechanism of the participants.
Video Conference Security Tip #4: security notice of webcams
Whenever a webcam is activated, the user’s consent must be requested first. When the webcam is recording, there should be a visible light to indicate that it is running.
When a user logs in to use the webcam, the system administrator must be notified immediately.
Even more, you can establish a multi-factor authentication mechanism to change the equipment into a higher-standard permission, so that the device is not easily hacked, and the settings are not easily adjusted.
Video Conference Security Tip #5: Make the most of host permissions and waiting function
Video conference software usually has a host function, which can manage or remove participants to prevent the meeting from being deliberately destroyed and interrupted.
And, through the Waiting Room function, the host controls who can attend the meeting at a specific time, to confirm the identity of the participant and check records of who tried to join the meeting.
When participants use screen sharing, if the screen is not appropriate, the host can disable this function through his permission to make the meeting proceed more smoothly.
Video Conference Security Tip #6: Continuously enhance your information security awareness
Nowadays, video conference and learning have become indispensable behaviors for distance interaction.
However, in the face of information security threats, enterprises and individuals should develop good information security awareness and alertness through regular education and training. Only knowing how to operate, and prevent when necessary, can you establish a safe and secure information environment.
