Zoom Security Alert: Update Your App to Protect Your Account

Zoom discovered a critical security vulnerability in its Windows desktop application. This flaw could allow an attacker to hijack your Zoom account without needing your password or any information from you. The vulnerability affects both the regular Zoom app and the software development tools that other programs use to add Zoom features. Zoom has released a fix, but you need to update your software to be protected. This affects anyone who uses Zoom on a Windows computer. If you or your family members use Zoom for work meetings, virtual school classes, talking with relatives, online tutoring, doctor appointments, or any other video calls on a Windows PC or laptop, you need to update immediately. The vulnerability does not affect Zoom on phones, tablets, or Mac computers. However, if you sometimes use Zoom on a Windows computer and sometimes on other devices, you still need to update the Windows version.

Take these steps right now to protect yourself:

1. Open the Zoom app on your Windows computer.
2. Click on your profile picture in the top right corner.
3. Click Check for Updates.
4. If an update is available, install it immediately.
5. Restart the Zoom app after updating.
6. Repeat this process on every Windows computer where you use Zoom.
7. If you have children who use Zoom for school on Windows computers, help them update their apps too. Make it a habit to update all your communication apps regularly, not just Zoom. Apps like Skype, Microsoft Teams, Google Meet, and others can also have security vulnerabilities. Most apps have a setting to update automatically, which you should enable whenever possible. Check your important apps for updates at least once a month. When companies announce security updates, they are telling you that a door was left unlocked. Installing the update locks that door. Delaying updates leaves you vulnerable to anyone who knows about the security hole.