How to Protect Your Video Calls from Hackers

Since the COVID-19 pandemic, nearly every aspect of work, school, and social life has moved online. Video calls have become a daily staple, from team meetings and client calls to online classes and family catch-ups. But the rapid adoption of these tools has also created new opportunities for hackers to sneak in.

In April 2020, Zoom reported 300 million daily meeting participants, up from 10 million in December 2019. That’s a huge increase in just four months. Everyone, from businesses and schools to world leaders, started relying on video conferencing. And as the audience grows, so does the risk.

Why Video Call Security Matters

The U.S. government considers the remote-working trend a national security concern. Hackers are always looking for ways in, and even popular apps aren’t foolproof. The NSA recently assessed 13 widely-used video platforms and found at least one security weakness in every tool.

Some key concerns:

• End-to-end encryption: Without it, calls can potentially be intercepted.
• Multi-factor authentication (MFA): Accounts without MFA are easier to compromise.
• Data sharing: Some apps share information with third parties, and policies aren’t always transparent.
• Data storage: Messages, chat logs, and files may be stored locally, leaving sensitive information exposed.
• Hidden surveillance features: Some apps track user activity or allow hosts to monitor attention, raising privacy concerns.

Even well-known platforms like Zoom have had vulnerabilities. From hidden web servers that allowed unauthorized access to webcam and microphone hacks, attackers are finding creative ways to exploit users.

Real-World Examples

• Zoom Bombings: Hackers join calls uninvited, disrupting meetings with offensive language or threats.
• Credential Dumps: Hackers sell stolen meeting links and passwords online. Often, reused passwords make accounts easier to hack.
• Silent Intruders: Hackers can lurk in meetings unnoticed, accessing sensitive discussions without detection.

These risks are real and preventable.

How to Protect Your Video Calls

The good news? Most threats can be mitigated with a few smart practices:

1. Lock Your Meetings

Use strong, unique passwords and require authentication. Only people you want in the call should be able to join.

2. Manage Screen Sharing

Limit sharing permissions to hosts or trusted participants. Before showing your screen, double-check open documents and tabs to avoid accidental exposure.

3. Watch Your Background

Remove personal items, sensitive documents, or photos from view. Many apps offer virtual or blurred backgrounds — use them.

4. Keep Apps Updated

Security vulnerabilities are often fixed in updates. Make sure your team is running the latest version of your video conferencing software.

5. Use Waiting Rooms and Participant Verification

Waiting rooms let hosts control who enters the call. Verify attendees at the start of each meeting, and don’t hesitate to remove uninvited guests.

6. Enable Extra Privacy Features

Turn off location tracking, data sharing, or “find me” features. Block or alert any recording attempts by participants who shouldn’t have that permission.

7. Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

MFA adds an extra layer of protection. Even if someone steals a password, they won’t be able to join without the second verification step.

8. Be Cautious on Public Wi-Fi

Free Wi-Fi is convenient but risky. Use a VPN and avoid accessing sensitive meetings or documents on unsecured networks.

9. Limit Webcam Use When Not Needed

Audio-only calls reduce exposure and prevent hackers from learning details about your environment.

10. Educate Your Team

Security is only as strong as the people using the tools. Make sure everyone on your team knows these best practices.

The Bottom Line

Hackers are opportunistic. The more video calls you run, the more attention you attract. But simple, consistent practices drastically reduce your risk. Strong passwords, MFA, careful sharing, and privacy settings are your first line of defense.

If you want to make sure your business and team are actually protected, reach out today.

(303) 332-6700

info@ntegritynetworks.com