Observed Signal · May 8, 2020 · Acquisition · Source: OnlineMarketing.de · Impact: 2/5 · Sentiment: Positive
Zoom acquires encryption firm Keybase
Zoom has acquired Keybase, a company specializing in encryption and user privacy, as part of a 90-day security review and update program. Keybase will join Zoom, with co-founder Max Krohn reportedly leading the new security team. The objective is to accelerate security improvements and develop end-to-end encryption for Zoom’s video communications, addressing past security concerns. The first project for the team is to deliver a stable end-to-end encryption model, with initial drafts expected by May 22. This acquisition is part of Zoom’s 90-day Feature Freeze initiative announced by CEO Eric Yuan, limiting new features to focus on closing security gaps. Zoom indicated the collaboration aims to create a truly private video platform, while CNBC noted that initial improvements may be available only to paying users, with details still evolving.
Acquisition of an encryption-focused company to bolster security; moderate impact on privacy tech within video communications
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Key Takeaways & Evidence Grounding
- Zoom acquires Keybase after a 90-day security review and updates
- Keybase specializes in encryption and user privacy services
- Max Krohn, Keybase co-founder, to lead Zoom's security team
- First project: develop stable end-to-end encryption; drafts by May 22
- Acquisition is part of Zoom CEO Eric Yuan's 90-day feature freeze to fix security gaps
Connected Companies & Entities
2 Entities mappedOntology Mapping & Concepts
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