Zoom and Microsoft Teams Lose French Government Trust After Security Review

France Adopts Domestic Videoconferencing Solution

On Mon, Jan 26, 2026, the French government announced the implementation of "Visio," a sovereign videoconferencing system developed by the Interministerial Directorate for Digital Affairs (DINUM). This initiative aims for full deployment across all government agencies by 2027.

The decision reflects the government's focus on data sovereignty and the security implications of using non-European technology for sensitive communications. French officials, including Minister Delegate David Amiel, highlighted security risks associated with maintaining strategic information on external platforms.

Currently, various government departments utilize multiple platforms such as Teams, Zoom, GoTo Meeting, and Webex, which compromises data protection and increases dependency on American technology providers.

Visio addresses security vulnerabilities with its security-first architecture, hosted on SecNumCloud-labeled infrastructure by Outscale, a Dassault Systèmes subsidiary, ensuring data remains within French borders. The platform incorporates advanced security standards in line with ANSSI guidelines, utilizing French technologies for key functions like AI-powered transcription and real-time subtitling.

Since the pilot program launched a year ago, Visio supports 40,000 regular users, with 200,000 employees expected to transition. Key adopters include the CNRS, French National Health Insurance Fund, the Directorate General of Public Finances, and the Ministry of Armed Forces, with the CNRS planning to replace 34,000 Zoom licenses by March 2026.

The transition to Visio is projected to save €1 million annually for every 100,000 users migrating from licensed solutions, offsetting infrastructure investments and aligning with security priorities.

This initiative is part of a broader European movement toward digital autonomy, reducing exposure to foreign government influence and potential supply chain vulnerabilities. While implementation presents challenges in user adoption and technical interoperability, the government's commitment signals a strategic shift in public sector communications infrastructure.

France's decision may influence other European nations considering similar measures for data protection and government communication sovereignty, potentially reshaping technology procurement strategies away from American platforms.

Based on reporting by GBHackers.