Protect your meetings: Our guide to prevent “Zoombombing”

With the new normal caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, many groups have to find new ways to foster solidarity, build community, and stay connected to one another. As a result, we are increasingly relying on digital tools, specifically video conferencing software such as Skype and Zoom.

A phenomenon that has arisen recently is known as “Zoombombing.” This refers to unwanted intrusion into a video call by a troll or bad actor that can range from disruptive to downright traumatising. Especially given that journalists and media workers are already prone to harassment, it is imperative that, regardless of the platform chosen, we do not give bad actors opportunities to invade our spaces by taking measures to safeguard our privacy, security, and mental well-being.

This guide is meant to help anyone working in sensitive fields (such as political groups, journalists, or activists) or with marginalised groups better prepare/safeguard themselves and their online activities while using video conferencing software. It includes pointers about what anyone seeking to host an online meeting, specifically on Zoom, can do to protect the integrity of the meeting/webinar/call, and prevent bad actors from hijacking a call to display disruptive or disturbing content.

You can read the guide here, and we encourage you to share it with your colleagues, partners, and networks.