Videoconferencing and the question of national security

In the official environment and in communication with citizens, confidentiality, security and the responsible handling of sensitive data are top priorities. Particularly when selecting a video conferencing solution, the protection of privacy and compliance with data protection regulations are of central importance.

One problem with the digitalisation of public services is the dependence on proprietary software providers. Many administrations use solutions that offer neither full transparency nor real control over their own data. In addition, there is often a lack of interoperable, secure alternatives that can be seamlessly integrated into existing IT landscapes.

Control over communication infrastructure

‘Digital sovereignty means retaining control over software and data instead of becoming dependent on proprietary providers in the long term - and is a matter of national security,’ says Daniel Zielke, Director of Strategic Partnerships at Open Talk.

OpenTalk is an open source-based video conferencing solution that emphasises digital sovereignty and data protection. It can be operated both in the company's own data centre (OnPremise) and on servers in Germany (SaaS). OpenTalk implements the requirements of the GDPR and is aimed at public authorities, educational institutions, providers and companies. OpenTalk is backed by the Berlin-based Heinlein Group, which also owns the mailbox.org and OpenCloud brands. The Heinlein Group can look back on around 30 years of experience in secure communication.

Open source applications such as OpenTalk make it transparent how data as a whole, including personal data, is processed. This guarantees independence from the data black box of international companies. Open source solutions not only enable secure, but also digitally sovereign video conferencing, as administrations and authorities retain control over their communication infrastructure and thus protect themselves from potential risks.

‘Our open source video conferencing solution enables public authorities to organise their digital communication flexibly and securely. Continuous further development, including barrier-free functions and the ability to flexibly integrate OpenTalk into existing IT structures and customise it, make the solution particularly future-proof,’ says Daniel Zielke.