Privacy, Security and Usability Comparison of Online Learning Platforms in Developing Countries: A Study on Bangladeshi Universities

ABSTRACT

As the number of MS Teams, Zoom, and Google Meet users increases with online education, so do the privacy and security vulnerabilities. This study aims to investigate the privacy, security, and usability aspects of few tools that are frequently used for educational purposes by Bangladeshi universities. Consumer security, privacy, and usability are also concerns when it comes to online-based software. This study assesses the most commonly used tools that are used for online education based on three important factors privacy, security, and usability. Assessment factors concerning the privacy, security, and usability aspects are initially identified. Afterwards, each of the applications was assessed and ranked by comparing their characteristics, functionalities, and terms and conditions (T&C) in contradiction of those factors. In addition, for the purpose of additional validation, a survey was carried out with 57 university students who were enrolled at one of several private universities in Bangladesh. Microsoft Teams, Zoom, and Google Meet have been ranked based on an evaluation of their security, privacy, and usability features, which was accomplished through the use of a knowledge base and a user survey. © 2022 IEEE.