Should you be concerned about hackers when using VoIP? Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) enables individuals to make phone calls utilising the internet in contrast to conventional phone lines.
It is a commonly chosen option for a business phone system, particularly for those with dispersed employees or seeking expansion.
Although VoIP has advantages such as being cost-effective and providing versatility, it is also known to trigger concerns regarding security.
As the usage of VoIP has surged, cybercriminals have started aiming for VoIP networks by launching various cyber attacks.
In this article, we will investigate whether or not VoIP is susceptible to hacking and cover typical risks to VoIP security, precautionary steps that can be implemented to safeguard against them, and recommended ways to maintain VoIP security.
Common types of VoIP hacking
VoIP phone systems can be vulnerable to a range of security threats and hacks, some of which are similar to those faced by traditional phone systems, while others are unique to VoIP technology.
Here are some common VoIP security threats to be aware of:
- Eavesdropping: Hackers have the ability to eavesdrop on VoIP conversations which can result in them obtaining confidential data like credit card numbers and personal information.
- Caller ID Spoofing: Using VoIP technology, hackers can easily alter caller ID information and present their calls as though they are originating from a different number than their true location.
- Denial-of-Service (DoS) attacks: Hackers have the ability to inundate a VoIP network with excess traffic, rendering it inaccessible to users. This could lead to financial losses for corporations and obstruct communication channels for individuals.
- Malware: Malicious software, including viruses or spyware, can potentially infect VoIP systems and jeopardise the security and data transmitted.
Don’t worry, there are measures you can take to ensure VoIP phone security which we’ll get to shortly.
What are the signs that your VoIP system has been hacked?
If you’ve been hacked, you may notice several signs. One of the most common signs is unusual activity on your phone bills, such as unauthorised long-distance calls or unique call patterns.
You may also experience call quality issues, such as dropped calls or poor sound quality, which can be caused by hackers using your system for malicious purposes.
Another sign of a possible VoIP hack is unauthorised access to voicemail or other system features. If you notice any of these signs, it’s crucial to take action immediately to investigate the cause and mitigate any potential damage or data breach.
What VoIP security measures can you take?
Several security measures can be taken to minimise the risks of VoIP security threats. Here are some examples:
- Encryption: Encrypting VoIP calls can help protect them from eavesdropping and interception by hackers. Encryption works by scrambling the data being transmitted so that it can only be decoded by authorised parties.
- Strong Authentication: Strong authentication measures, such as two-factor or biometric authentication, can help prevent unauthorised access to VoIP networks and systems.
- Network Segmentation: Segmenting VoIP networks can limit the impact of a potential breach. By dividing the network into smaller, more manageable sections, it is possible to contain the damage caused by a security breach and prevent it from spreading to other parts of the network.
- Firewall: A firewall can block unauthorised access to a VoIP network. This can help prevent DoS attacks, which can overwhelm the network and make it unavailable.
- Regular Updates: Regularly updating VoIP software can help patch known security vulnerabilities and ensure the system runs the latest security protocols.
Your VoIP provider will be able to help implement these and other security measures.
Best practices for VoIP and cybersecurity
In addition to implementing security measures, several best practices can be followed to improve VoIP security. Here are some examples:
- Use Strong Passwords: Improving password security, using strong passwords, and changing them regularly can help prevent unauthorised access to VoIP systems and networks.
- Monitor Network Traffic: Regularly monitoring network traffic can help detect and prevent security breaches and identify potential areas of weakness that need to be addressed.
- Educate Employees: Training employees on VoIP security best practices can help prevent accidental security breaches and ensure that everyone knows the importance of VoIP security.
It’s important to remember that no security measure is foolproof and that it is always important to stay vigilant and proactive regarding VoIP security. Talk to your VoIP provider to ensure your VoIP devices are secure.
Protect your VoIP phone system from VoIP security threats
VoIP can be vulnerable to a range of security threats, but many measures can be taken to protect against them.
It’s essential to remember that security threats constantly evolve and that staying current on the latest security protocols and best practices is vital.
Your phone provider should be able to help keep your VoIP service secure. If you remain vigilant and proactive, businesses and individuals can minimise the risks of VoIP security breaches and continue enjoying this popular technology’s benefits.
If you want to know more about keeping your phone system secure, contact Kingstar Services today.
Article authored by Laura Bean Creative Little World
