• Technology -> Networks and communications

• 0 Comment

What are some of the ethical considerations surrounding the use of video conferencing?

Adelyn Lindmark

Video conferencing has become an essential tool for communication in our modern world, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the ethical considerations surrounding its use are varied and worth discussing.

One of the foremost ethical considerations when it comes to video conferencing is privacy. In the case of confidential and sensitive information, the use of video conferencing should be limited to ensure privacy and prevent unauthorized access. It is imperative to ensure that only authorized personnel are on the call, and access should be restricted using passwords, encryption, and other security measures.

Another ethical issue that arises from video conferencing is the potential for misuse. Video conferencing allows for the easy sharing of screen content, making it much easier for information to be shared unconsciously. As a result, it is necessary to ensure that the content shared through video conferencing is legitimate and appropriate. Sharing materials that may be controversial or offensive should be avoided, the discussion should be limited to official business to avoid misuse.

Additionally, there is a risk of recording and storing video conferencing content for future use. Organizations should be very careful with storing these videos, as storing them can potentially infringe on the privacy rights of participants. There is a significant risk of data breaches when storing video conferencing data. Ethical protocols for video conferencing should require consent from all participants before recording and build secure access and storage systems.

The hosting of video conferencing also poses ethical issues since it invites a possibility of inappropriate and unethical behavior. It is important for organizations to establish guidelines and protocols that maintain the required level of respect between participants. Ethical behavior protocols that address issues like bullying, harassment, or inappropriate content must be put in place to keep the calls professional and focused on business.

As with any form of communication, there are ethical considerations that arise when using video conferencing. Privacy, content responsibility, and recording/storage policies are just a few of the significant ethical concerns that should be considered when using this technology. By adhering to established ethical protocols, organizations can ensure the safety, privacy, and protection of their employees and clients. It is essential to establish policies, codes of conduct, and guidelines that safeguard ethical behavior in video conferencing so that these legitimate communication tools continue to provide their intended value.