Availability of Read.ai and Otter.ai
The Information Technology department has recently received several complaints regarding read.ai and otter.ai tools appearing in Zoom and Teams meetings without the consent of all participants. After researching these tools and determining that no Data Sharing agreements currently exist with those vendors, we have determined that blocking read.ai and otter.ai's integrations to EWU's Zoom and MS Teams is necessary to protect institutional data and user privacy.
We apologize for any inconvenience caused by disabling these tools. Data Sharing Agreements are required by state law whenever data and information is being shared with a third-party. We appreciate your understanding of our role ensuring the protection and security of university and protected student data.
What are read.ai and otter.ai?
They are AI tools can join, transcribe, and summarize their users’ online meetings even when the users are not in attendance and without the consent of other participants. In addition, the meeting summaries provided by these tools may be shared automatically with meeting participants. These and other risks necessitate the action taken.
Why is EWU IT blocking read.ai and otter.ai?
While we understand that these tools can provide useful functionality, they also create significant security and privacy concerns. They act on their own and do not require the consent of all parties when they add themselves to meetings. In many cases, participants are unaware that they are being transcribed or that their meetings are being monitored by an AI tools. Neither IT or Procurement have reviewed the Terms and Conditions for these services. Additionally, no Data Sharing Agreement exists with either read.ai or otter.ai.
What can you use instead of read.ai or otter.ai?
Microsoft Copilot is available in Teams and Zoom's AI tools are also available in Zoom Workspace.
Please be considerate of your fellow campus community members. Recording or transcribing a meeting may surprise other participants. If you feel a need to record or transcribe, ensure that you obtain consent from all participants first.
What if you need help disabling read.ai or otter.ai?
If you need assistance with the removal process or have concerns about the impact on your work, please review the instructions on read.ai and otter.ai's sites. If you need additional support, contact the IT Help Desk.