(REUTERS): Zoom Video Communications has hired former Facebook security chief Alex Stamos as an adviser in order to improve the privacy and security of its rapidly growing video-conferencing app amid a global backlash.
In this regard, Google had banned the desktop version of Zoom from corporate laptops. Google has its own videoconferencing app called Meet, a direct competitor to Zoom.
The company sent an email to all employees and told them that the app would stop working this week, citing “security vulnerabilities.”
Elon Musk’s Space X has also banned the app over security concerns, while Taiwan and Germany have already put restrictions on Zoom’s use. The company also faces a class-action lawsuit.
In order to address these concerns regarding privacy, security and technology issues, Zoom has embarked on a 90-day plan here and has formed a CISO Council.
It has also set up a board to advise CEO Yuan on privacy issues. The initial members include executives from VMware, Netflix, Uber and Electronic Arts.
Coronavirus lockdowns led to surging use of Zoom this year. Zoom attracted users with its ease of use, as well as a free offering. Many schools around the world also started using it for online classes.
However, in recent weeks concerns rose about the lack of end-to-end encryption of meeting sessions, routing of traffic through China and “zoom-bombing,” where uninvited guests crashed meetings.
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