Covid-19: Zoom bombs make choosing video apps harder for lockdown chats


FILE PHOTO A 3D printed Zoom logo is placed on the keyboard in this illustration taken April 12 2020. REUTERSDado Ruvic

Zoom, which has soared to 200 million daily users from 10 million in less than three months, had multiple reports of ‘Zoombombing’, where strangers barge into private calls having gained access to an invite or meeting number. Underlying many of the issues is the fact that Zoom has not merely become more popular; with the world under lockdown, Zoom has transformed from a business-oriented teleconferencing tool to global video hangout. — Reuters

The coronavirus crisis has seen millions locked in their homes turn to videoconferencing apps, bringing with it question marks over security and privacy and a new verb — Zoombombing — the practice of uninvited users crashing into conversations.

From easy-access models for schoolkids and casual users like Houseparty, Google Hangouts or Zoom to Cisco's business-focused Webex, Microsoft's Teams or San Jose-based BlueJeans, the value and profile of these apps has soared.

Subscribe now and receive free sooka plan for 1 month. T&C applies.

Monthly Plan

RM13.90/month

Annual Plan

RM12.33/month

Billed as RM148.00/year

1 month

Free Trial

For new subscribers only


Cancel anytime. No ads. Auto-renewal. Unlimited access to the web and app. Personalised features. Members rewards.

Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel for breaking news alerts and key updates!
Zoom , Houseparty , Microsoft Teams

Others Also Read


Want to listen to full audio?

Unlock unlimited access to enjoy personalise features on the TheStar.com.my

Already a member? Log In