Zoom Settles 'Zoombombing' Lawsuit for $85 Million
Zoom Reaches $85 Million Settlement Over Privacy and Security Concerns
Zoom has reached an agreement to pay $85 million to resolve a lawsuit alleging breaches of user privacy. The accusations centered on the unauthorized sharing of user data with external parties and the occurrence of disruptive “Zoombombing” incidents.
Understanding Zoombombing
The term “Zoombombing” gained prominence during the pandemic, as reported by TechCrunch. It refers to the unwelcome intrusion of uninvited individuals into Zoom meetings. These intruders often caused disruption through the display of inappropriate content, the dissemination of hateful messages via backgrounds, or the use of offensive language.
Details of the Lawsuit
The legal action, initially filed in March 2020 within the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California, also claimed that the company improperly shared personal user information with companies like Facebook, Google, and LinkedIn.
Settlement Terms and Future Security Measures
Alongside the $85 million settlement – which may result in refunds of 15% of subscription fees or $25 for qualifying class members – Zoom has committed to enhancing meeting security.
These improvements will include notifying users when meeting organizers or attendees utilize third-party applications during sessions. Furthermore, Zoom will provide specialized training to its staff regarding privacy protocols and responsible data management.
Zoom’s Statement on the Matter
“User privacy and security are paramount concerns for Zoom, and we deeply value the trust placed in us by our user base,” stated Zoom in an official release. “We are pleased with the progress made in strengthening our platform and remain dedicated to ongoing innovation with privacy and security as core principles.”
Final Approval Pending
The proposed settlement is subject to the approval of U.S. District Judge Lucy Koh, who presides in San Jose, California, before it can be officially enacted.
The agreement signifies a commitment to addressing user concerns and bolstering the platform’s security features.
