Jay Krous leads the Lab’s cyber security team, within the Information Technology division. In this 3Q4 feature he discusses Zoom usage in light of recent media coverage.
Is Zoom safe to use?
Yes, recent events have not changed the Lab’s view that Zoom is an appropriately secure video conferencing solution for work-related meetings. Zoom, which is offered by Berkeley Lab and UC campuses under a negotiated agreement, is the Lab’s recommended and supported video conferencing system.
How can employees use Zoom safely?
The most important thing you can do is make sure your Zoom software is the latest version. It’s also a good idea to familiarize yourself with the wide range of security controls provided by Zoom. The most discussed attack, Zoom Bombing, where an uninvited guest crashes your Zoom meetings, can be completely avoided using Zoom controls such as passwords or by restricting the Zoom to Lab staff.
What about using Zoom with non-Lab colleagues?
A handful of peer institutions have made different risk assessments and restricted the use of Zoom. You should keep in mind that these assessments are often grounded in situations that are distinct from ours. We’re offering guidance about how to deal with these situations at https://go.lbl.gov/zoom-security