Importance of VoIP security 

Whether you have a large or a small business, you must always focus on security. If your phone system gets disrupted, it can lead to serious problems for you and your business. Hence, take special precautions to ensure that your VoIP systems remain secure. While call encryption is a way by which you can secure your VoIP calls, the whole matter of VoIP security goes much deeper than that. In no way, you can afford to have some hackers listen to your business calls and get hold of sensitive information.    

Common threats to a VoIP system

Make sure that you are well-prepared to deal with the security threats that may affect your VoIP systems. It is crucial to know the possible threats you may encounter through them. 

Here is a look at some of the common VoIP security vulnerabilities you should learn about. 

The default security settings

One of the basic vulnerabilities associated with the VoIP telephony systems is connected with their default security settings. The VoIP credentials must be configured. The VoIP is a type of smartphone that comes with advanced computer-like features. Therefore, you should configure them with secure credentials instead of simply using the default settings and basic passwords. It will help you avoid pitfalls and vulnerabilities. 

Attacks on network

The network you are connected to can be hacked or breached. It can compromise your VoIP systems. Different types of security breaches can affect your network. If your company’s business phone network has been compromised, it can affect your VoIP system security directly. 

Using VoIP phone over Wi-Fi

Another possible source of threat can come when you are using VoIP phones over Wi-Fi. The shared Wi-Fi networks can be breached by hackers. They can get into your phone system. Hence, you should use a secured office connection while using VoIP phones. 

Remote eavesdropping

Once your VoIP systems are breached or they become vulnerable, the hackers can eavesdrop on your calls and listen to the confidential discussions and private information you share on the phone. Such information leaks can hamper the future of your company. The hackers can sell the information to a competitive business or blackmail you with them. 

Viruses affecting the VoIP system

There are hundreds of viruses and malware on the internet and when you do not have a sufficiently secure VoIP system, it can lead to your VoIP phones being infiltrated by these programs. 

VoIP phishing

Phishing is yet another form of security breach that often happens with these phones. With VoIP phishing, users get a call from someone who pretends to be a legitimate entity and asks for sensitive and private information. The phishing callers often get some accurate information about the users. Hence, it can make them appear credible. However, the information that people share with them can be used for illegal purposes. 

Denial of Service (DoS) 

The Denial of Service is a type of attack meant to deplete the resources for a phone system so that it leads to interrupted phone services and dropped calls. Therefore this type of security issue can lead to increased latency and poor call quality. It can also affect the uptime of the phone system. 

Toll fraud 

The toll frauds often occur when you need to use your phone system to make calls that reach an outside line. Hackers and criminals can use this to dial international numbers that can lead to high toll charges for you. 

War dialing 

In war dialing, an attacker can control your PBX for scanning and detecting other telephone networks. This method involves dialing numbers and connecting to modems and other extensions.

Call interception 

The attackers often work with unsecured networks for intercepting the unencrypted SIP traffic. They can also have access to video calls in this way. 

Spam 

Spam calls and other types of phone scams often happen with VoIP calls. The hackers often use restricted caller-ID for this. 

Securing your VoIP phones with best practices 

Here are some ways to increase the security and safety of your VoIP calls. 

Encrypt voice traffic

First and foremost, you should implement voice encryption so that it cannot be detected or penetrated by external agencies. You can use highly advanced encryption techniques for encrypting voice and other forms of traffic moving through your VoIP telephony systems. 

Use a VPN

A VPN or virtual private network can implement a potent layer of additional security. Use the VPN for protecting calls taking place over mobile and wireless networks. It can be an effective way to keep the system secure and safe for on-site and off-site workers.

Encrypt Wi-Fi

Apart from encrypting the voice traffic, encrypt the Wi-Fi connection you are using to ensure complete security from possible breaches.

Strong passwords

You should not simply use the default security settings but customize them and always use strong passwords to secure the system. You should also regularly change your passwords. The methods above-discussed can help secure your VoIP phones against external attacks. You can also click here to learn more about VoIP security.