Security statement Zoom usage

Last update: April 14th 2020, 10.30 am AEST:
Formal Navitas/SAE statement regarding Zoom usage and reported security concerns

Navitas/SAE understand that some SAE students/staff are concerned about recent media reports regarding Zoom for online learning - particularly in relation to privacy and security.

SAE takes all privacy and security matters seriously and has investigated this as a priority. While we acknowledge the concerns reported in the media, we also acknowledge the company’s rapid response – including the pausing of feature updates to concentrate on nothing but privacy and security for a three-month period.

For SAE and its parent company (Navitas) Zoom has been pivotal in our shift to blended and online delivery, with fantastic results for many thousands of students worldwide. Previous to Covid-19 we have also long been using Zoom for meetings, webinars and engagement with staff and stakeholders.

However, in light of the media reports, we have taken extra steps to guarantee the privacy and security of our staff and students. These include:

• Producing guidance notes for staff to ensure the secure scheduling of classes/meetings

• Constantly monitoring Zoom announcements to ensure we make best use of any new functionality that is released to further secure the platform

• Undertaking a comprehensive review of competitor online platforms, with consideration for privacy and security features as well as student experience.

Having reviewed alternative solutions, we are confident that Zoom still offers the best end-user experience coupled with a feature-rich interface that greatly enhances the online delivery of classes.

We will continue monitoring the situation as a priority and inform our staff and students of any updates.