Zoom fights Zoombombing with new privacy, security features

Video conferencing app Zoom has surged in popularity these past few weeks. However, the app is not without fault and has been plagued with several privacy and security issues of late.

To address these concerns, the folks over at Zoom have introduced some new features aimed at delivering a more secure meeting environment.

Zoom will now enable a waiting room feature and additional password settings for all free and single licensed users, including those with education accounts.

All Zoom meetings and webinars initiated by the aforementioned users will now need a password to enter meetings.

Related: How to change your Zoom background to make meetings more fun

The new password requirements will be locked for all education accounts. For other free accounts and accounts with a single licensed user, the settings will be turned on by default. However, they can be altered from Zoom’s web portal or while scheduling a meeting.

You will also need a password if you’re joining an instant meeting, joining by phone, joining by meeting ID, or joining a meeting scheduled prior to April 5.

This is being done to avoid Zoombombing, a practice where unwanted people drop into a Zoom conference call.

Once you’ve joined a meeting, you’ll have to wait for the host to let you in from a virtual waiting room. This will allow organizers to confirm your identity before making you a part of the call. The host of the meeting can allow in people from the waiting room individually or all at once.