As businesses move towards more remote operations, video conferencing platforms have become increasingly important. With so many different video conferencing platforms available, it can be difficult to know which one is the best for your business needs. That’s why we have created this comprehensive comparison of the security features of the top five video conferencing platforms: Zoom, Google Meet, Skype, GoToMeeting and WebinarJam. In this article, we will look at how each platform measures up when it comes to the security features they offer. We will compare the features related to encryption and data security, user authentication and access control, and compliance requirements.
We will also explore the pros and cons of each platform and discuss which one is the best for your business.
Access Controls
: Access controls allow users to protect their data from unauthorized access. Zoom offers a range of access controls, including the ability to set up different levels of access for different user groups, and the ability to control who can join meetings. Google Meet also offers access control features, such as the ability to restrict meeting invitations to specific users and the ability to control who can present in meetings. Skype offers basic access controls, such as password protection for meetings, but does not offer more advanced features such as restricting meeting invitations.GoToMeeting also offers basic access control features, such as password protection and the ability to restrict meeting invitations. WebinarJam also offers basic access controls, such as the ability to restrict meeting invitations and password protection.
Encryption Protocols
: All of the video conferencing platforms offer encryption protocols to protect data in transit. Zoom uses AES 256-bit encryption for all of its audio, video, and data transmissions.Google Meet uses TLS 1.2 for its encryption protocol, and Skype uses TLS 1.2 and SRTP for its encryption protocols. GoToMeeting also uses TLS 1.2 for its encryption protocol and WebinarJam uses AES 256-bit encryption for audio and video transmissions.
Data Storage Location
: It is important to consider where a platform stores its data when choosing a video conferencing platform. Zoom stores its data in the United States and Europe, while Google Meet stores its data in the United States, Europe, and Asia Pacific regions.Skype stores its data in the United States, Europe, Asia Pacific, and Latin America regions. GoToMeeting stores its data in the United States and Europe, and WebinarJam stores its data in the United States.
Data Retention Policies
: Each platform has different policies regarding how long it retains data after a meeting has ended. Zoom retains meeting recordings for up to 30 days by default, but this can be changed to up to one year if needed.Google Meet retains recordings for up to 30 days by default, while Skype retains recordings for up to 30 days by default. GoToMeeting retains recordings for up to 7 days by default, while WebinarJam retains recordings for up to 14 days by default.
Multi-Factor Authentication
: Multi-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security to a user's account by requiring them to provide two or more pieces of evidence when logging into an account. Zoom offers two-factor authentication (2FA) as an optional security measure, while Google Meet does not offer 2FA at this time.Skype offers 2FA as an optional security measure, while GoToMeeting does not offer 2FA at this time. WebinarJam does not offer 2FA at this time.
Auditing Capabilities
: All of the video conferencing platforms offer auditing capabilities that allow administrators to monitor user activity on their accounts. Zoom offers the ability to audit user activity on the platform, including who joined meetings and when they joined them. Google Meet also offers auditing capabilities, including the ability to track user activity on the platform.Skype also offers auditing capabilities, including the ability to track user activity on the platform. GoToMeeting offers basic auditing capabilities, such as the ability to view who joined meetings and when they joined them. WebinarJam does not offer auditing capabilities at this time.
Account Recovery Options
: It is important to consider what account recovery options are available if a user loses access to their account due to a forgotten password or other issue. Zoom offers multiple account recovery options, including the ability to reset passwords via email or text message or using an authentication app such as Google Authenticator or Duo Security.Google Meet offers similar account recovery options, including the ability to reset passwords via email or text message or using an authentication app such as Google Authenticator or Duo Security. Skype also offers multiple account recovery options, including the ability to reset passwords via email or text message or using an authentication app such as Microsoft Authenticator or Duo Security. GoToMeeting also offers multiple account recovery options, including the ability to reset passwords via email or text message or using an authentication app such as Duo Security or Authy. WebinarJam does not offer account recovery options at this time.
Special Security Measures
: Some video conferencing platforms offer additional security measures that may be beneficial for certain users or organizations.Zoom offers advanced security features such as webinar authentication and secure video conferencing rooms which are only available with certain subscription plans. Google Meet does not offer any additional security measures at this time. Skype does not offer any additional security measures at this time. GoToMeeting does not offer any additional security measures at this time.
WebinarJam does not offer any additional security measures at this time.
GDPR Compliance
: It is important to consider whether a platform is compliant with GDPR regulations when choosing a video conferencing platform. Zoom is compliant with GDPR regulations and has received certification from TrustArc and TRUSTe for its data privacy practices. Google Meet is compliant with GDPR regulations and has received certification from TrustArc for its data privacy practices. Skype is compliant with GDPR regulations and has received certification from TrustArc for its data privacy practices.GoToMeeting is compliant with GDPR regulations and has received certification from TrustArc for its data privacy practices. WebinarJam is compliant with GDPR regulations and has received certification from TrustArc for its data privacy practices.
Security Incidents
: It is important to consider any major security incidents related to each platform when deciding which one is best suited for your needs. Zoom experienced a major security incident in 2020 which resulted in uninvited guests gaining access to private meetings without authorization. In response, Zoom implemented a number of security measures including enabling passwords by default on all meetings and introducing a bug bounty program for researchers who identify potential issues with their platform’s security measures.Google Meet has not experienced any major security incidents since its launch in 2020. Skype has also not experienced any major security incidents since its launch in 2003. GoToMeeting has not experienced any major security incidents since its launch in 2004. WebinarJam has not experienced any major security incidents since its launch in 2013.
Multi-Factor Authentication
Multi-factor authentication (MFA) is an important security feature used by many video conferencing platforms to protect data and user accounts. MFA requires users to provide more than one form of identification before being granted access to a system, such as a password and a code sent to a phone or email address. This makes it more difficult for hackers to gain access to sensitive information. Zoom and GoToMeeting both offer MFA for users, allowing them to log in with an additional layer of security.Skype also offers MFA, but only for users with a Microsoft account. Google Meet does not have MFA available yet, but they have announced that it will be available soon. WebinarJam provides MFA for all its users, allowing them to choose either SMS or email verification.
Special Security Measures
When choosing a video conferencing platform, it is important to consider the special security measures offered by each. Zoom offers advanced encryption of data in transit, as well as end-to-end encryption for meetings with three or more participants.It also provides the ability to set passwords for meetings, utilize a waiting room to vet participants before joining a meeting, and lock meetings once everyone has joined. Google Meet also offers end-to-end encryption for meetings with three or more participants, as well as the ability to restrict who can join a meeting. Skype also offers end-to-end encryption for all calls and conferences, as well as the ability to set passwords for meetings. GoToMeeting provides the ability to set passwords for meetings and restrict who can join, while WebinarJam offers advanced encryption of data in transit, along with the ability to set passwords for meetings. These special security measures are important for protecting user data and ensuring that only authorized participants can join a meeting.
Additionally, all of these platforms offer additional features such as two-factor authentication, real-time monitoring of activities, and activity logs that can help enhance security even further.
Data Storage Location
When choosing a video conferencing platform, it is important to consider where user data is stored. Zoom stores user data on the cloud, either through Amazon Web Services or Microsoft Azure. Google Meet stores user data in the Google Cloud. Skype stores user data in its own data centers located in Europe and the United States.GoToMeeting stores user data in its own data centers in the US and EU. WebinarJam stores user data in Google Cloud as well as Amazon Web Services. It is important to note that the location of a platform’s data centers can have an effect on the security of user data, as well as the quality of the video conferencing experience. For example, if a platform has a data center in Europe, it will provide better security for users in the region than a platform with a data center in the US. Similarly, if a platform has multiple data centers around the world, it will be able to offer better quality video conferencing than one with only one data center.
Account Recovery Options
Account recovery options are an important part of ensuring data security when using video conferencing platforms.Zoom, Google Meet, Skype, GoToMeeting, and WebinarJam all offer various levels of account recovery options. All platforms provide a way to reset passwords in the event of forgotten passwords or if a user's account is hacked. Zoom also allows users to set up two-factor authentication to further protect their accounts. Google Meet provides the ability to recover an account with a phone number, while Skype offers an email-based recovery service. GoToMeeting has a password reset system that sends a link to the user's email address.
WebinarJam offers an automated password reset system that sends a reset link to the user's email address. These account recovery options provide users with the ability to protect their data and regain access to their accounts if they are compromised. It is important for users to take the time to understand the different options available on each platform and choose the one that best suits their security needs.
Encryption Protocols
Video conferencing platforms are increasingly becoming essential for individuals and businesses for a variety of activities. Security is a major concern when using video conferencing platforms, as any breach of security could lead to data loss and other issues. This article will compare the encryption protocols used by Zoom, Google Meet, Skype, GoToMeeting, and WebinarJam to help readers make an informed decision. Zoom uses AES (Advanced Encryption Standard) 256-bit GCM encryption, which is one of the strongest encryption protocols available.It ensures that any data sent through Zoom is encrypted, making it virtually impossible for unauthorized individuals to access the data. Google Meet uses the same protocol as Zoom, AES 256-bit GCM encryption. This protocol ensures that any data sent through Google Meet is encrypted and secure. Skype also utilizes AES 256-bit GCM encryption to protect user data. This encryption protocol ensures that any data sent through Skype is secure and cannot be accessed by unauthorized individuals. GoToMeeting also utilizes AES 256-bit GCM encryption to protect user data. This encryption protocol ensures that any data sent through GoToMeeting is secure and cannot be accessed by unauthorized individuals. WebinarJam also utilizes AES 256-bit GCM encryption to protect user data.
This encryption protocol ensures that any data sent through WebinarJam is secure and cannot be accessed by unauthorized individuals. In conclusion, when choosing a video conferencing platform, it is important to consider the encryption protocols used by each platform. All of the platforms mentioned in this article use AES 256-bit GCM encryption to ensure that user data is kept safe and secure.
GDPR Compliance & Certifications
The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) is an EU law that sets out standards for data collection and use. It applies to any company, no matter where they are based, that processes the data of EU citizens. It is important to ensure the video conferencing platform you choose complies with GDPR regulations.Zoom: Zoom has implemented changes to its privacy and security features to comply with GDPR regulations. It also has ISO 27001 certification, which is an international standard for information security management systems.
Google Meet:
Google Meet is GDPR compliant and has also achieved ISO 27001 certification. In addition, Google is certified under the EU-US and Swiss-US Privacy Shield Frameworks.Skype: Skype is compliant with GDPR regulations and it is certified under the EU-US and Swiss-US Privacy Shield Frameworks. It also has ISO 27001 certification.
GoToMeeting:
GoToMeeting is GDPR compliant and it has also achieved ISO 27001 certification. Furthermore, the company is certified under the EU-US and Swiss-US Privacy Shield Frameworks.WebinarJam: WebinarJam is GDPR compliant and it has also achieved ISO 27001 certification. In addition, the company is certified under the EU-US and Swiss-US Privacy Shield Frameworks.
Major Security Incidents & Responses
With the ever-increasing demand for video conferencing, it is important to consider the security features of each platform. While each platform has its own security measures in place, there have been several major security incidents involving these platforms. Here, we will discuss the most notable security incidents involving Zoom, Google Meet, Skype, GoToMeeting, and WebinarJam and the measures taken in response.Zoom
In April 2020, Zoom faced a major security breach that allowed hackers to gain access to user data and video meetings without proper authentication.The company responded by releasing multiple security updates, such as allowing users to set passwords for their meetings. Additionally, they implemented a bug bounty program that rewards ethical hackers who discover security vulnerabilities.
Google Meet
Google Meet has not experienced any major security incidents, as the platform is built on the secure Google infrastructure. Google has implemented a variety of measures, such as two-factor authentication and encryption of data in transit and at rest.Skype
In 2016, Skype experienced a major security incident when hackers gained access to user accounts. Microsoft responded by implementing more stringent security measures, such as two-factor authentication and end-to-end encryption for calls and messages.GoToMeeting
GoToMeeting was affected by a data breach in 2019 that exposed user information.In response, the company implemented additional encryption measures and strengthened its authentication protocols.
WebinarJam
WebinarJam has not experienced any major security incidents. The company offers advanced encryption methods for all its services and users are advised to use strong passwords for added security.Data Retention Policies
Data retention policies, or data storage policies, refer to the way in which data is stored and managed. Companies must have a clear policy on how long they retain user data, as well as how it is stored and protected. This is particularly important for video conferencing platforms, as any breach of security could lead to data loss and other issues.Below, we compare the data retention policies of Zoom, Google Meet, Skype, GoToMeeting, and WebinarJam.
Zoom
: Zoom's data retention policy states that they store user data for as long as necessary to provide services, comply with legal obligations, resolve disputes, and enforce their agreements. They also ensure that all user data is stored securely and that user privacy is respected.Google Meet
: Google Meet has a comprehensive data retention policy which states that all user data is stored securely and only for as long as necessary to provide the services. They also have strict guidelines in place to protect user privacy.Skype: Skype's data retention policy states that they store user data only for as long as necessary to provide the services.
GoToMeeting
: GoToMeeting's data retention policy states that they store user data only for as long as necessary to provide the services.WebinarJam
: WebinarJam's data retention policy states that they store user data only for as long as necessary to provide the services. They also ensure that all user data is stored securely and that user privacy is respected.Auditing Capabilities
The auditing capabilities of video conferencing platforms are an important consideration when choosing a platform for business or personal use.Zoom, Google Meet, Skype, GoToMeeting, and WebinarJam all have built-in auditing features which help to detect potential security issues. Zoom provides data loss prevention (DLP) which allows users to set policies to monitor and protect data in real-time. It also offers a secure sign-in feature that requires two-factor authentication and an audit log that tracks user activity. Google Meet also has a secure sign-in feature, and its audit logs track user activity, allowing administrators to quickly identify any suspicious behaviour.
It also offers encryption, and its data loss prevention capabilities detect and prevent the sharing of sensitive data. Skype offers encryption and its audit logs track user activity, allowing administrators to identify any suspicious behaviour. Additionally, its secure sign-in feature requires two-factor authentication to ensure security. GoToMeeting provides encryption and data loss prevention capabilities that allow users to set policies to monitor and protect data in real-time.
It also has an audit log that tracks user activity and a secure sign-in feature which requires two-factor authentication. WebinarJam also has an audit log that tracks user activity and encryption to protect data. It also offers a secure sign-in feature that requires two-factor authentication. In conclusion, all of the video conferencing platforms mentioned provide essential auditing capabilities which help to detect potential security issues.
Zoom, Google Meet, Skype, GoToMeeting, and WebinarJam all offer encryption, secure sign-in features with two-factor authentication, and audit logs which track user activity. Therefore, it is important to consider the auditing features of each platform when selecting a video conferencing platform for business or personal use.
Access Controls
Access controls are essential for protecting data on video conferencing platforms. Zoom offers a range of access control options, such as passwords, waiting rooms, and one-time passwords. Passwords are used to authenticate users and restrict access to meetings.Waiting rooms are virtual areas where participants are placed until they are admitted by the host. One-time passwords can be sent out to invited participants, who can use them to gain access to the meeting. Google Meet offers similar access control features, such as passwords and two-factor authentication. Two-factor authentication requires users to enter a code sent to them via text message or email before they can join a meeting.
Google Meet also has a customizable lobby where users can be placed until they are admitted by the host. Skype also provides access control options, such as passwords, two-factor authentication, and call waiting. Call waiting allows users to remain in the waiting room until they are admitted by the host. GoToMeeting also provides access control options, such as passwords, two-factor authentication, and call waiting.
WebinarJam also offers access control features, such as passwords and two-factor authentication. All of these platforms offer important access control features that help protect user data. By using passwords, two-factor authentication, call waiting, and other access control measures, users can be sure that their data is safe when using these platforms. In conclusion, this article has compared the security features of Zoom, Google Meet, Skype, GoToMeeting, and WebinarJam. Access Controls, Encryption Protocols, Data Storage Location, Data Retention Policies, Multi-Factor Authentication, Auditing Capabilities, Account Recovery Options, Special Security Measures, GDPR Compliance & Certifications, and Major Security Incidents & Responses were all covered.
Each platform offers different strengths and weaknesses when it comes to protecting user data, so it is important to consider all factors before making a decision. Choosing a secure video conferencing platform is critical for individuals and businesses alike and the key takeaway from this article is that users should assess all security features before making their choice.
