With an increasing number of businesses using VoIP, there are opportunist hackers waiting to take advantage of this new method of attacking a network.
This doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t use VoIP – but it does mean you need to be aware of the risks and what security measures you can implement to protect your VoIP system from misuse.
What Are The Risks Of Using VoIP?
A VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) system connects phone calls via the internet rather than over a regular phone line. As with any internet-connected technology, it is at least partially vulnerable to hacking. The first step to securing your business VoIP system is to be aware of the potential threats.
If your VoIP system is compromised, you are at risk of the following threats…
- Eavesdropping
If your VoIP system is connected to an unprotected WiFi network, someone could easily listen in on your VoIP calls. This could be very damaging if you’re discussing something sensitive. - Denial of Service Attacks
Denial of services attacks are designed to cause phone services to be disrupted. These attacks overload the VoIP systems with spurious requests, meaning that genuine calls are also blocked. - Hijacking
If an attacker is able to access your VoIP service and make calls, they can use the trust that comes with calling from a known number to defraud your customers or suppliers. - Viruses and Malware
Viruses and malware may infect practically any electronic device or network you own. This is true for VoIP networks as well. These viruses may cause a variety of unwelcome system disruptions. They can steal or delete sensitive data, prevent you making call, or even use your VoIP platform to take control of a connected computer system.
The Best Practices For VoIP Security
If you’re concerned about VoIP security, there are several steps you can take to ensure that your phone system is better protected against the threats listed above.
- Have a secure password policy in place for your VoIP platform
Many VoIP platforms provide a basic default password. To stay safe, replace the default password with a strong password which you do not share with anyone. If possible, you should implement MFA (Multi Factor Authentication) for your password. - Restrict admin access to admins only
This might sound obvious, but you’d be surprised how often this issue comes up in VoIP security. Only your actual admins should have the power to make major changes to your network like adding or removing users. Otherwise, a hacker could use any user’s account to gain control over your entire VoIP platform. - Keep your VoIP system up to date
When it comes to any technology, keeping them up to date with the latest patches is vital. New vulnerabilities are discovered in software all the time, but manufacturers also regularly release patches to fix these vulnerabilities. That means if your software is not up to date, it is likely you are vulnerable. So, the next time you get a reminder to update your software, you should do it! Otherwise, you might forget and end up leaving your business VoIP software at risk of attack. - Monitor your call logs
Another proven technique to ensure that your VoIP system is secure is to regularly monitor its usage. Most VoIP platforms can display your call records for you, which will show you which numbers your users are calling and when. If you notice anything suspicious, like calls to premium rate numbers, or calls being made out of office hours, you should investigate. - Use a corporate VPN for remote employees
The importance of security cannot be overstated in an era when remote work is becoming increasingly common. Employees who work from home can expose your firm to a slew of security risks. Require your remote team members use a corporate VPN when connecting to your VoIP system from outside the office. You should block connections which do not use the VPN. Doing so adds another layer of security and prevents your VoIP usage being eavesdropped on when connecting from unsecured public WiFi hotspots. - Use a managed telecoms service
The best way to ensure your VoIP platform is efficient and protected from threats is to partner with a managed telecoms provider like Carden Telecoms. We’ve helped businesses of all sizes to implement VoIP technology in their organisations.
If you’re ready to implement VoIP technology in your business phone system, make sure you get it right from day one. Speak to our team of telecoms expert today.
