UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — As the spring semester progresses, those using the Zoom videoconferencing platform should remember that to avoid “Zoom-bombing” — a type of online harassment where an individual hijacks a video conference to wreak havoc — there is a list of tips and settings to help prevent unwanted actions by participants.
The University also has provided guidance to all faculty and instructors on how to handle disruptions in remote classes at its Keep Teaching website. Tech TAs are available to assist faculty, and Tech Tutors also are offering one-on-one consultations to provide additional technical support for staff and students.
To discourage unwanted guests from joining a Zoom meeting, it is strongly recommended that individuals do not post meeting links on social media platforms and other online sites. There are recommended guidelines on how to properly advertise and promote virtual events to keep meetings and events secure. The University is exploring the potential for additional steps it can take to help secure Zoom meetings.
Additional information is available via the following Knowledge Base articles:
- Zoom: Change Meeting Settings for Hosts
- Zoom: Change Webinar Settings for Hosts
- Zoom: Prevent and Manage Meeting Disruptions (aka Zoom-Bombing)
- Zoom: Preventing Unwanted Meeting Attendees
Questions also can be answered by contacting the IT Service Desk, calling 814-865-HELP, or sending an email to zoom@psu.edu. For the latest Zoom updates, news, resources, support and training information, visit zoom.psu.edu.
University officials emphasize that any incidents of Zoom-bombing should be reported to University Police immediately, and that offenders could face charges for unlawful use of a computer, harassment and disorderly conduct, among other charges. In addition, Penn State Counseling and Psychological Services is available to help support students who may be impacted by Zoom-bombings at virtual meetings or events.