Posted on Apr 27, 2020
Can I be ordered to install Zoom on my computer/phone?
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So, since the DoD has stated Zoom is a security issue and no longer use it; my unit still is. They want me to install Zoom on my personal devices (it's still a security threat) to attend a meeting. Can they force me to install it?
UPDATE: Just dialed in using the phone number provided (did not install anything). The briefer sent the slides out afterwards to everyone's .Mil emails. Thanks for all the help and guidance.
UPDATE: Just dialed in using the phone number provided (did not install anything). The briefer sent the slides out afterwards to everyone's .Mil emails. Thanks for all the help and guidance.
Software
Security
IT Specialist
Edited 4 y ago
Posted 4 y ago
Responses: 11
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Honestly, if I were in a situation where it was ordered or "highly encouraged" to download the app to my phone, I would get a pre-paid phone. I would use it only for that. Why put your personal phone at risk?
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MAJ Bryan Zeski
TSgt (Join to see) - Don't go get another phone, you can't be forced or ordered to install anything on a personal device. If you have more detailed questions on what you can or should do, talk to JAG.
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Is Zoom still on the approved app list? Yes.
What you should be using is:
Zoom for Government
Microsoft Teams (for Government)
DCS
Webex
DISA Enterprise Audio Conferencing
Submit your recommendations for compliance, and hope for the best.
Pro tip: Rallypoint may fall under the guise of "social media", but it is still primarily a place where you can ask professionals for advice. Regardless of said advice, please save the "boomer" comments for Reddit.
What you should be using is:
Zoom for Government
Microsoft Teams (for Government)
DCS
Webex
DISA Enterprise Audio Conferencing
Submit your recommendations for compliance, and hope for the best.
Pro tip: Rallypoint may fall under the guise of "social media", but it is still primarily a place where you can ask professionals for advice. Regardless of said advice, please save the "boomer" comments for Reddit.
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MAJ Bryan Zeski
SGM (Join to see) My understanding is that the military cannot require a person to install anything on a personal device - whether its on an approved list or not.
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SGM (Join to see)
MAJ Bryan Zeski - True, however the military can require personnel to participate in a meeting or training, with the option to download an app or dial a number to participate, or report in person at the place of duty which would also require a very put out NCOIC to also be there, and sure make it seem like downloading the app would have been the smarter choice in hindsight.
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MAJ Bryan Zeski
SGM (Join to see) True. They could. But in this present environment, a Commander would have to approve the mission-essential nature of the meeting. I would hope that that Commander would be prepared to explain the urgency of that meeting up the chain.
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Is your unit using "Zoom for Government"? DoD guidance still allows this service depending on what is discussed. Boomer out.
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CMSgt (Join to see)
DoD said they still allow Zoom for Government because it is more secure than the free or commercial versions. It sounds like DoD is taking a calculated risk until they can migrate to a more secure service/platform. Instructing work centers to install Zoom for Government on personal devices is...unorthodox to say the least. Your call. (no pun intended)
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1SG (Join to see)
CMSgt (Join to see) Chief, do you have a memo? The last thing I saw from our G-6 stated that DOD did not authorize it for ANY military use.
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CMSgt (Join to see)
At this point, I would simply follow organizational guidance with the caveat this seems to be a moving target.
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