Press Releases
04/03/2020
Attorney General Tong Issues Recommendations for Safe Video Conferencing
(Hartford, CT) – Attorney General William Tong today encouraged all users of video conferencing technology to familiarize themselves with their platforms’ privacy and security features.As we all move to working and socializing at a distance, we are increasingly relying on technology to communicate. Video conferencing has become extremely popular. Learning how to use these platforms ‘on the fly’ is no small challenge, but it is important to take the time to learn how to use them securely and safely.
“Earlier this week, I attended a Zoom conference that was ‘bombed’ by hundreds of profane and racist comments. Needless to say, I am familiarizing myself with these platforms’ privacy and security features, too. My office has been in contact with representatives from Zoom to address this and other issues relating to online security and privacy,” said Attorney General Tong. “Whether on Zoom or any other digital platform, hateful and racist speech is not OK—not now, not ever. Our world is confronting an unprecedented threat, and there are trolls who seek to exploit our fear to turn us against one other. Don’t let them. Together, with love, compassion and courage, we will get through this.”
In the meantime, Attorney General Tong encouraged everyone to practice safer video conferencing by:
• Ensuring that your video conference software is up to date.
• Confirming that your conferences are private, either by requiring a password for entry or controlling guest access through a virtual waiting room.
• Checking that the highest security settings are applied for your teleconference platform. Consult your software company’s security information or your IT department.
Attorney General Tong is co-chairman of the National Association of Attorneys General Internet Safety/Cyber Privacy and Security Committee.
- Twitter: @AGWilliamTong
- Facebook: CT Attorney General
Media Contact:
Elizabeth Benton
elizabeth.benton@ct.gov
Consumer Inquiries:
860-808-5318
attorney.general@ct.gov