Using Zoom, Microsoft Teams, other video conferencing apps? Here are the risks you should know

The video conferencing apps are becoming increasing popular with most companies asking their employees to work from home amid the ongoing coronavirus crisis. While Zoom has emerged as the go-to-option for several people, other apps like Google Hangouts, Microsoft Teams, and WebEx Meetings are also being used by a lot of people. 

These apps allow you to host meetings with colleagues, get in touch with friends and even see a doctor on-screen with the click of a button. However, the attention these apps are getting pose a new challenge for you. 

In its blog post, NortonLifeLock explains that the ease of transmission could also make information easier for cybercriminals to access. The blog asks users of these apps to be aware of the security risks before getting on a video call with your work team or group of friends.

“Most hosted cloud-based conferencing services have advanced security measures. But you still need to set up your teleconferencing tools effectively. That can help keep malware, hackers, and identity thieves out,” the blog says. 

What are the privacy risks?

The blog explains that your webcam provides a window to your world. “What if you mistakenly leave your webcam on? Or what if malicious software like spyware infiltrates your computer and lets a hacker spy on you through that camera?” it asks.

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It adds that this this is possible. It says that hackers can also gain access to a call if it’s made using unsecure Wi-Fi in a public place like a coffee shop or airport. 

“This raises privacy concerns. If you’re on a company call, legal or financial information — or trade secrets — could be stolen. If you’re talking with your doctor, your sensitive healthcare information could end up in the hands of a cybercriminal who may be trying to get enough information about you to steal your identity to commit identity theft and fraud,” the blog states. 

Some of these apps collect customer data which includes cloud recordings, videos, messages, files and documents shared on screen, among others. If the hackers are able to find a vulnerability in the app, the data could be compromised too.