Local governments focus on virtual meeting rules amid trending 'zoom bombing' threats

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Local governments focus on virtual meeting rules amid trending 'zoom bombing' threats
Derogatory CommentsColumbus City CouncilPublic Access
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Security concerns are top of mind because of a disturbing trend known as 'zoom bombing,' where video meetings are hijacked with offensive material.

Saturday's weather around Central Ohio could be rough, including strong winds, possible hail and even a small chance for tornadic activity.While trying to keep meetings open through the internet, local governments have to contend with the threat of ' zoom bombing ,' in which offensive content is shown by people under the guise of addressing local leaders.

For years, Columbus residents have been able to watch city council meetings on their phones, tablets, and laptops. Jose Rodriguez, the council's communications director, emphasized the importance of public access to meetings, stating, "It's critical that our meetings are available to the public, but we want to do it in a safe way." To prevent disruptions, the council has the ability to silence any speaker who makes derogatory comments. "We have full control of what you are saying because if you go inappropriate, we can cut you off immediately," said Rodriguez. CTV Columbus Government Television provides a feed of council meetings that can be found on the city's website.Speakers are required to sign up in advance, and the city council then provides a restricted link speakers use to log in.on Tuesday was disrupted by a video that included individuals in Ku Klux Klan outfits, pornographic images, and antisemitic and racist rants.In light of these incidents, speakers at Franklin County Commissioner meetings can now only comment in person while officials determine how to safely allow virtual statements. Similarly, Worthington has mandated in-person attendance for council comments after two online callers made antisemitic remarks during a September council meeting.Columbus City Council has not experienced issues with virtual visitors and conducts regular reviews to adapt to the evolving digital landscape.

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