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All VoIP systems require a stable internet connection to function properly. Unfortunately, their reliability on the internet makes them vulnerable to various security issues.<\/p>
Some of the most frequent ones include:<\/p>
Security Issue #1. Denial of Service<\/h3>
Denial of Service (DoS) is a common threat to VoIP systems comprising attacks designed to shut down a machine or network and make it inaccessible for use. <\/p>
When this happens, legitimate users of VoIP technology may not be able to access their information systems and devices. And call centers can be affected by lower call quality, uptime, and latency. <\/p>
Security Issue #2. War Dialling<\/h3>
War dialing is an attack that controls the company\u2019s private branch exchange (PBX) and scans for other phone networks. This means hackers can dial numbers and connect to modems and other extensions.<\/p>
Security Issue #3. Toll Fraud<\/h3>
Toll fraud is a threat that consists of making calls to outside lines from a company\u2019s existing system. <\/p>
For example, hackers will dial costly international numbers intending to rack up toll charges to your business. <\/p>
Security Issue #4. Phishing<\/h3>
This is a common threat wherein attackers send fraudulent messages designed to trick victims into revealing sensitive information. Often, the unsuspecting victims would divulge information about passwords, internal IP networks, and similar data. <\/p>
Security Issue #5. Malware<\/h3>
It\u2019s a threat where attackers install malicious software via email or phone. A file or code gets delivered over a network and has the goal of infecting, stealing, or exploring the information contained within a system. <\/p>
After infecting the system with malware, VoIP hackers can enter your network and access critical business information. <\/p>
Security Issue #6. Call Interception<\/h3>
The call interception attacker uses unsecured networks to intercept the Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) traffic that serves to initiate, maintain, and terminate real-time voice and video sessions. <\/p>
A victim of a call interception attack can be redirected to another line hosted by the hacker, for example.<\/p>
6 Tips for Boosting VoIP Security<\/h2>
Given the variety of threats imposed by attackers on VoIP systems, it\u2019s necessary to optimize your VoIP security ASAP. <\/p>
Here are 6 valuable tips to get you started.<\/p>
Tip #1. Set Up a Firewall <\/h3>
Secure firewalls are necessary for all VoIP systems. It\u2019s important to make your VoIP software and hardware firewalls scan information that goes in and out of the system and ensure it\u2019s secure. <\/p>
If spam or a threat comes your way, the firewall will identify and gain control over it, shielding your system shielded from the attack.<\/p>
Also, a good firewall will allow the data packets you send to travel unhindered. <\/p>
Tip #2. Use Strong Passwords <\/h3>
Your VoIP system is no different from any other software or platform you use for handling sensitive information. For this reason, it needs to be protected with strong and regularly updated passwords. <\/p>
Aim for combinations of at least 12 characters, including numbers, upper- and lower-case letters, and special symbols. And for ultimate protection, go for passwords consisting of a random character series. <\/p>
It\u2019s crucial to set a password as soon as you configure your VoIP system. Otherwise, you\u2019re likely to forget about it later. <\/p>
Also, remember that some VoIP phones come with pre-set passwords, often available publicly. That\u2019s why you should change yours as soon as you get a chance. <\/p>
Ideally, try to change your passwords every three months.<\/p>
Tip #3. Restrict Calling<\/h3>
Many VoIP attacks happen due to toll fraud. So, if your business runs locally, there\u2019s no need to have the international call option enabled. This allows you to be on the safe side and avoid paying expensive bills you weren\u2019t even responsible for making. <\/p>
You can let your VoIP service block 1-900 numbers to avoid toll fraud. <\/p>
Tip #4. Encourage Your Team to Report Suspicious Behaviour <\/h3>
Many of the VoIP attacks arrive due to irresponsible behavior. To prevent this from happening, educate your team on how they can best do their job without affecting the system\u2019s security. <\/p>
For starters, they should know how to spot unusual network activity, handle passwords, and report suspicious behavior. They should also report ghost calls and missing voicemails whenever received. Staff also shouldn\u2019t store voicemail for too long. <\/p>
The reality is that sometimes, cybersecurity training during onboarding often isn\u2019t enough. That\u2019s why you should do periodical training to keep your VoIP safe at all times. <\/p>
Tip #5. Deactivate Web Interface Use <\/h3>
Ideally, you should deactivate the web interface used for your VoIP system. <\/p>
Why?<\/p>
Using phones on a desktop computer opens an area of weakness to attackers. It’s enough for a single phone user falling prey to leave the whole system exposed to an external party. All your data can be stolen in text format as a result. <\/p>
So, unless it\u2019s absolutely necessary for you to use the web interface, be sure to secure it very strictly.<\/p>
Tip #6. Use a VPN for Remote Workers<\/h3>
Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) are great software that encrypts traffic regardless of your employee\u2019s location. <\/p>
You can set up such a network for your remote staff to prevent data leaks and breaches. The good news is that using this service won\u2019t degrade the call quality. <\/p>
(Re)Gaining Control Over Your VoIP Security<\/h2>
VoIP systems are a fantastic alternative to landlines. After all, they offer many more features and flexibility at a fraction of the cost. However, their reliability on the internet also makes them susceptible to cyberattacks. <\/p>
If you have just set up a VoIP system for your company or are thinking of starting one, securing it should be your number one priority. Don\u2019t risk falling prey to toll fraud, malware, phishing, and other attacks. Take some time to secure your business by following the tips from this article. <\/p>
And if you need more help to implement these changes or would like to further discuss securing your business\u2019s VoIP system, reach out to us and we can set up a 10-15-minute chat. <\/p>
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