Businesses are increasingly relying on Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) systems due to their cost-effectiveness and enhanced features. However, VoIP systems are not without security risk — these systems are also a potential entry point for cyberattacks. VoIP's vulnerability to cyberattacks therefore requires stringent security measures. To safeguard your VoIP phones, we recommend implementing the following security protocols.
Enhance password security
Your passwords serve as the initial barrier against unauthorized access to your VoIP system. While they authenticate your entry to sensitive information, their reliability has diminished over time. Modern hackers possess tools enabling them to easily guess passwords and then exploiting them to initiate attacks. This is why it’s imperative to safeguard your VoIP passwords to bolster defense against various threats. To fortify your security posture, implement measures like multifactor authentication or employ a password manager to create and manage complex passwords for your VoIP accounts.
Verify that your VoIP provider uses encryption
VoIP systems without encryption are vulnerable targets for cybercriminals. That’s mainly because exploiting VoIP systems doesn't demand advanced technical expertise; hackers can simply download tools to eavesdrop on your calls. While many VoIP service providers claim to incorporate encryption, it's best to exercise caution and check the actual security measures your service provider implements. Encryption shields your phone systems, rendering intercepted audio or video call files unreadable to hackers without the decryption key.
Turn off the phone's web interface
The web interface of a phone provides users with online access to device settings, features, and accounts via a web browser. Through this interface, users can modify parameters such as passwords, caller IDs, and other critical settings. Disabling this interface is a proactive measure to shield against malicious attacks, as it prevents users from accessing their accounts through a web browser, thereby enhancing security.
Work with an IT provider that can monitor your systems 24/7
VoIP security breaches can occur outside regular business hours when establishments are closed. Attackers exploit this window to make unauthorized calls using private accounts or infiltrate call records to pilfer sensitive data. Such breaches can persist undetected for extended periods. To preempt these privacy breaches, work with an outsourced IT provider that can conduct round-the-clock monitoring of network traffic and promptly identify any irregularities in your systems.
Use VPNs
Virtual private networks, or VPNs, establish a secure connection between two devices, mimicking connectivity to a closed network. Think of it as forging a private, encrypted pathway accessible only to you and the intended recipient of your call. Additionally, VPNs can assist VoIP users in managing challenges related to Session Initiation Protocol trunking, a highly recommended feature for VoIP systems.
Implement VoIP firewalls
VoIP firewalls, tailored for IP-based telephony, regulate the flow of traffic permitted into your network. Their primary role is to spot suspicious or unusual calling patterns and ensure that each connection is appropriately terminated at the session's conclusion. While most VoIP vendors offer these protocols, it's advisable to seek guidance from your IT services provider regarding their management within your organization for added security assurance.
VoIP security is just as important as your other cybersecurity priorities. Our experienced IT professionals are ready to assist you in creating the ideal security strategy for your VoIP systems. Contact us today to begin fortifying your communication network.