Protecting confidential meetings virtually

Video conferencing has become the go-to platform for online business communication for internal and external meetings across the board. Whether you’re on Microsoft Teams, Zoom or Google Meet, these tech giants take security seriously, implementing regular updates to strengthen user data privacy. However, the settings are only effective if users take necessary precautions to protect their devices from cyber-attacks and data breaches.

Reports indicate that cybercrime-related attacks skyrocketed by 600% during COVID-19 as hybrid working rose, putting businesses in a more vulnerable position. Often, security measures on corporate networks get tightened so dramatically that technology devices become locked down to the network, causing employees to reduce their usage. Yet as devices become more sophisticated, manufacturers are increasing functionalities that protect against hackers whilst offering more user-friendly features.

Most laptops provide the user with a built-in camera, microphone and speakers, and often considered the perfect all-in-one solution for people to take calls on the move. Unfortunately, integrated devices are usually characterised by low picture and video quality and, if hacked, can provide direct access to what the user sees and hears.  

By offering individuals working on the move with an external video conferencing device, headphones and table microphone, you can increase the virtual meeting experience and provide extra measures to protect against attacks.

‍Maintaining professionalism on the move

There is no denying that giving people the flexibility to work between home, public spaces and the office increases autonomy for employees. We've seen this first-hand across our client base and our team, whose productivity and support for one another has grown since we let them decide their own working patterns. 

Yet maintaining business professionalism on the go is a rising concern across the board. Contending with the background environment can add pressure and limit where people work. People, personal belongings or sensitive data can distract from the meeting or cause prejudice.   

We saw an influx of creative backgrounds made at the start of the pandemic, some providing a clean room appearance while others showed off the user's personality. While video conferencing platforms offer access to various background options, the creative effects don't entirely block out the backdrop leaving the camera to capture everything it sees. Therefore, it’s best practice to block out backgrounds via the camera rather than the video conferencing platform to increase personal privacy. 

Human-centric virtual experiences in confidence

Connection speeds, image quality and clunky technology can stifle collaborative work, especially in online meetings. So while it's essential to look out for the most secure devices, this shouldn't come at the expense of the experience. 

Maintaining that in-room experience with intelligent zoom, clever auto framing and 4K Ultra-HD video can be tricky on the move. Still, the best external video conferencing devices on the market now offer these features and are designed to be conveniently carried around.  

Selecting a certified Teams device is also imperative if your business operates via Microsoft Teams. Microsoft is continually releasing new and exciting features to enhance how people interact naturally online, and you'll want to ensure your employees reap the long-term benefits. 

The small print

Running software updates and privacy settings are the last thing on the minds of busy workers. Devices like the PanaCast 20 prioritise encryption and enterprise privacy policies, and configure and confirm meeting settings. The personal video conferencing camera also receives regular software updates throughout the product’s lifespan to enhance the experience, update the feature set, and prolong the device investment.

By supplying personal video conferencing solutions to hybrid employees, users can effectively safeguard themselves and the business against cyber-attacks they may unknowingly be at risk of.