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Zoom Security

Safety & Security
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The information on this page is intended to assist Student Organizations in setting up meetings and online events in the most secure way possible. Some of the recommendations differ from Penn State default settings and where that is the case, we have indicated the reason behind those recommendations.

Tips to Prevent and Respond to Zoom Bombing

Zoom Bombings are when an uninvited guest joins an online meeting or class. We strongly encourage you to take proactive measures when you are setting up your meeting or webinar to ensure the highest level of security. 

Never share Zoom meeting links publicly online. Instead, post your event registration link when advertising your event.  

Setting up a meeting or webinar 

We have put together a step-by-step pdf guide (docx) to walk you through the steps to set up a Zoom meeting or webinar to be as secure as possible. You can jump to sections of the document using the table of contents in the document.

  • Setting up a Zoom meeting with recommended security
  • Setting up a Zoom webinar - most secure option
  • Settings to use during a meeting and in the event of a disruption
  • How to set up registration 

Training and Support for Student Organizations

Student Organization Consultants can help you navigate the different security features in zoom to ensure your meeting and events are safe and engaging. Find an upcoming training or request a one-on-one workshop. 

Penn State IT Learning and Development Guides and Learning Paths 

Video: Learn how to secure your meeting in 4 minutes

Quick Start Guides

Learning Paths

When a Zoom Bombing Occurs

Zoom bombings can range from minor distractions to hateful or malicious incidents. Whether it happens during a meeting your hosting or one you are attending, a Zoom bombing can have an impact on everyone involved. 

Designate a cohost for your meeting to help manage the meeting, including the waiting room, last-minute registrations, and disruptions. 

  1. Click Suspend Participant Activity under the Security button. The meeting will lock to prevent others from joining, all participants' videos will be disabled, audio will be muted, screen shares and recordings will stop, and break-out rooms will end.  
  2. Unmute your microphone to let participants know how to proceed. This may include rescheduling the meeting or continuing after the disruption has been addressed.  
  3. Document everything and report all incidents of Zoom bombings to University Police immediately as well as to Penn State Report Bias.  

How to Respond and Provide Resources after a Zoom Bombing

  1. Reach out to those impacted, acknowledge the intrusion, and condemn the behavior. 
  2. Offer resources to meeting attendees; make sure to utilize any resources you may need as well. 

Resources

Counseling and Psychological Services: CAPS is available for individualized support or to support the group that was affected by the Zoom Bombing. Contact, Stephanie Stama, assistant director, Community Education and Outreach to discuss how CAPS can host and provide a space for your group to come together to process, reflect, and be supported. 

Any of the offices below can also provide you or members of your group with support and resources.