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Although recording meetings is an option on Zoom, you can only use it if the meeting’s host gives you permission to do so. And sometimes that’s not possible, especially if you’re in a large meeting or conference. So here’s how to record a Zoom meeting without permission, using what you already have on your computer!

That depends on where you live and the laws in your county, state, country, or municipality. In some areas, you may be able to record Zoom meetings without prior authorization. But in some states that require two parties to consent (like California), everyone in the meeting must consent or you could face legal action.

How to Record a Zoom Meeting Without Permission on Your Phone

While this article will only talk about recording a zoom meeting via a laptop or computer, there are ways to record via your phone as well. For most iPhone users, you have the ability to use the built-in screen recording software. For Android users, you may have to add the screen recording to your phone via an app, or by adjusting your drop-down screen.

How to Record a Zoom Meeting Without Permission

Now, let’s get into how to record a Zoom meeting without permission!

Step 1: Log In to Zoom

Before you can record a new meeting, you’ll need to be logged in to Zoom and have the meeting open on your screen. From there, you can move on to the recording process.

How to record a zoom meeting without permission
Accessing the meeting.

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Step 2: Open QuickTime

Next, you’ll need to open up the QuickTime Player recording app (if on a Mac computer) or a similar app that allows you to record your computer screen.

How to record a Zoom meeting without permission
Launching a recording app.

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Step 3: Press New Screen Recording

Once you open the app, you’ll be able to record your full screen, record a video, record a video with audio, or even take a screen capture. But for this article’s purpose, we’re going to press ‘New Screen Recording‘.

How to record a Zoom meeting without permission
“New Screen Recording” is the third option from the top.

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Keep in mind that once you do this, QuickTime Player will automatically start recording the video for you. You’ll know it’s doing this because you’ll see a square inside of a circle in the upper right-hand corner of your screen.

How to record a Zoom meeting without permission
Checking that the screen is being recorded.

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Step 4: Stop Once Meeting Is Finished

Once your meeting has concluded and you’re ready to stop your recording, simply press the square button in the upper right-hand corner of your screen. From there, QuickTime Player will automatically download the screen recording and show you what it looks like.

How to record a Zoom meeting without permission
Viewing the downloaded Zoom meeting.

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You can also see the recording in your downloads or desktop folder (depending on your settings). If needed, you can rename the screen recording.

How to record a Zoom meeting without permission
Finding the meeting in the appropriate folder.

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How to Record a Zoom Meeting Without Permission Wrap Up

In conclusion, you’re free to use any of the above options to record a Zoom meeting. While it’s simple to record Zoom meetings directly from the app, it’s not always an option. Thankfully, there are ways to record on your Windows or Mac computer without using Zoom itself.

How to Record a Zoom Meeting Without Permission, Step-By-Step With Photos FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) 

Will other participants be alerted if I record the Zoom Meeting?

Not if you’re using third-party software, as we’ve listed above.

What's the best third-party software for recording Zoom sessions?

Whatever is already on your computer. For most Mac users, that’ll be QuickTime Player. For Windows users, you may have the built-in tool Game Bar.

Can I record a Zoom meeting inside the Zoom app without the host’s permission?

Not with Zoom, but you could use third-party software to record if needed.

Why would you need to record a Zoom meeting without permission?

You might need to record a Zoom meeting without the host’s consent for a number of reasons. It may be for research or to review later. Whatever the motivation, there are legal ways to accomplish your goals; just don’t break any laws in the process.

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