Superior voice quality
However, VoIP systems also have limitations, with cyberattacks being their number one downside.
Fret not! The good news is that you can protect a business’s VoIP system from hackers.
Read on to discover the most common threats to your network and tips on preventing them.
All VoIP systems require a stable internet connection to function properly. Unfortunately, their reliability on the internet makes them vulnerable to various security issues.
Some of the most frequent ones include:
DENIAL OF SERVICE
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.
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.
TOLL FRAUD
Toll fraud is a threat that consists of making calls to outside lines from a company’s existing system. Hackers will dial costly international numbers intending to rack up toll charges to your business.
PHISHING
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.
Scary, right? Given the number of threats imposed by attackers on VoIP systems, it’s necessary to optimize your VoIP security ASAP!
Here are 5 valuable tips to get you started.
SET UP A FIREWALL
Secure firewalls are necessary for all VoIP systems. If spam or a threat comes your way, the firewall will identify and gain control over it, shielding your system from the attack.
USE STRONG PASSWORDS
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.
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.
Also, remember that some VoIP phones come with pre-set passwords, often available publicly. That’s why you should change yours as soon as you get a chance.
Ideally, try to change your passwords every three months.
RESTRICT CALLING
Many VoIP attacks happen due to toll fraud. So, if your business runs locally, there’s 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’t even responsible for making.
ENCOURAGE YOUR TEAM TO REPORT SUSPICIOUS BEHAVIOUR
Many VoIP attacks are due to irresponsible behavior. To prevent this from happening, educate your team on how they can best do their job without affecting the system’s security.
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’t store voicemail for too long.
The reality is that sometimes, cybersecurity training during onboarding often isn’t enough. That’s why you should do periodical training to always keep your VoIP system safe.
USE A VPN FOR REMOTE WORKERS
Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) are great software that encrypt traffic regardless of your employee’s location.
You can set up such a network for your remote staff to prevent data leaks and breaches.
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’t risk falling prey to toll fraud, malware, phishing, and other attacks.
If you need assistance in implementing these changes or would like to further discuss securing your business’s VoIP system, contact us today!
Oasis Intelligent IT Solutions.
Telephone: 011 784 9167
Email: info@theoasis.co.za
Website: www.theoasis.co.za
