Dear John,

The last thing I wanted to do is send another email as so many of us are preparing for Passover or Easter. But this one is important for all of you setting up virtual Seders and other gatherings over Zoom — I want you to be aware of Zoombombing and other hazards, so you can spend safe, quality time with your family and friends in the new order of social distancing.

We have some good news.

Since we first began talking with Zoom about our concerns, they have been responsive to the very real threats that have materialized on their service. The newly announced safety features will benefit all users, and we are particularly grateful that Zoom improved the product just in time for Passover when the Jewish community will be holding virtual Seders and when people of other faiths and traditions will be connecting online for their holiday observances. There’s more to do, but this is a solid start.

What’s New

Zoom has rapidly rolled out enhancements to help meeting hosts to easily manage secure meetings. Each host will now have a Security icon in their controls that combines all of Zoom’s in-meeting security features so you can quickly lock a meeting, enable a Waiting Room and take other steps to keep the meeting safe if issues arise. They have announced a 90-day push to launch additional safety, privacy, and security steps. You can read ADL’s new update on Zoom security and preventing Zoombombing here.

Breaking News on the Next Fighting Hate from Home Webinar

Please plan to join us next Tuesday, April 14 at 2:30 PM ET/11:30 AM PT when we will be hosting a webinar on these new security measures and how you can use them for your meetings and gatherings. We will be joined by a technical advisor from Zoom, who will provide an inside look at the security challenges sparked by this new era of staying connected while sheltering in place. Zoom will also join ADL’s security experts in sharing the latest tips and tactics for keeping the trolls and extremists out of your meetings.