FTC Approves Settlement With Zoom Over Allegations Company Misled Consumers About Its Data Security Practices

The following is a press release from the Federal Trade Commission

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The Federal Trade Commission finalized a settlement with Zoom Video Communications, Inc., over allegations it misled consumers about the level of security it provided for its Zoom meetings and compromised the security of some Mac users.

The final order requires Zoom to implement a comprehensive security program, review any software updates for security flaws prior to release and ensure the updates will not hamper third-party security features.

Zoom had previously claimed it offered end-to-end encryption for its videoconference software, which would mean only the people participating in a call could access its contents. 

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The company must also obtain biennial assessments of its security program by an independent third party, which the FTC has authority to approve, and notify the Commission if it experiences a data breach.

After receiving 12 comments on the proposed settlement, the Commission voted 3-2 on January 19, 2021 to finalize the settlement and to send responses to the commenters. 

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Acting Chair Rebecca Kelly Slaughter and Commissioner Rohit Chopra each issued dissenting statements. Commissioner Christine S. Wilson issued a separate statement.

The Federal Trade Commission works to promote competition and to protect and educate consumers.

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