Zoom ups its security with two-factor authentication to protect users, prevent breaches

Zoom has finally added the two-factor authentication protocol to its platform for better security.

Zoom offers a range of authentication methods such as SAML, OAuth, and/or password-based authentication, which can be individually enabled or disabled. (REUTERS)

Making it easier for admins and organisations to protect their users and prevent security breaches on the platform, Zoom has added two-factor authentication (2FA) to its arsenal.

2FA helps identify online users through a process that requires them to present two or more pieces of information/evidence/credentials that can authenticate ownership of the account. So users may be required to use a password and pin, or information on a smartcard or mobile device or biometric authentication elements like fingerprint or voice.

The main benefits of introducing the 2FA feature on a platform is enhanced security. This provides a fool-proof way to validate users and protect against breaches. Organisations can reduce the risk of identity theft and security breaches by adding 2FA as extra layer of security that prevents bad actors from accessing accounts by guessing passwords or gaining access to employees' or students' devices.

Implementing 2FA also helps organisations meet compliance obligations for sensitive data and customer information.

For small businesses and schools, it can be expensive to pay for an SSO service and this 2FA provides a free and effective way to validate users and protect against security breaches. And 2FA provides an additional level of security that spares users from constant password management.

With Zoom's new 2FA, users now have the option to use authentication apps that support Time-Based One-Time Password (TOTP) protocol (such as Google Authenticator, Microsoft Authenticator, FreeOTP etc). Or they can also have Zoom send a code via SMS or phone call, as the second factor of the account authentication process.

Zoom offers a range of authentication methods such as SAML, OAuth, and/or password-based authentication, which can be individually enabled or disabled.

To enable Zoom's 2FA at the account-level for password-based authentication, account admins should take the following steps:

- Sign-in to the Zoom Dashboard

- In the navigation menu, click Advanced, then Security.

- Make sure the Sign in with Two-Factor Authentication option is enabled.

- Select one of these options to enable 2FA for:

All users in your account: Enable 2FA for all users in the account.

Users with specific roles: Enable 2FA for roles with the specified roles. Click Select specified roles, choose the roles, then click OK.

Users belonging to specific groups: Enable 2FA for users that are in the specified groups. Click the pencil icon, choose the groups, then click OK.

- Click ‘Save' to confirm your 2FA settings.