Compared to a landline, VoIP technology is more prone to hacking. Even though it’s not common, it can still happen if you don’t take the proper precautions to protect your business from many of the common VoIP security threats in today’s cyberthreat landscape.
What’s VoIP (voice over internet protocol)?
VoIP technology makes it possible for you to make phone calls using a broadband internet connection instead of an analog line (a landline). Many businesses are opting for VoIP systems for a variety of reasons — including lower costs and flexibility — but what they often overlook is security.
There are several ways you can protect your VoIP system from potential cybersecurity threats.
Strong passwords.
You are told time and time again: Create strong passwords. But do you?
At the very least, change default passwords as soon as possible. Anything connected to your network — firewalls, devices, routers, modems — should have a strong password.
Not sure if your passwords are strong enough to beat hackers? Here are some best practices to review from the techs at Google.
Encryption is your friend.
VoIP calls aren’t always encrypted. When they’re not, hackers can easily intercept data, something you want to avoid at all costs.
Protect yourself from cybercriminals attempting to gain access to your data by ensuring your VoIP phone service is encrypted from the onset. Do this by simply asking about encryption with the VoIP services providers you’re evaluating.
Deploy a VPN.
One way to secure your VoIP service is by deploying a virtual private network (VPN).
A VPN essentially creates a private network from a public internet connection. When using a VPN, there’s an extra layer of protection between you and cybercriminals trying to infiltrate your systems and networks.
What else does a VPN provide? A VPN also offers users online privacy and anonymity.
To ensure data is protected, find a provider offering VPN technology in addition to VoIP.
Educate your team on VoIP vulnerabilities.
Do your employees understand what a VoIP system is? What about VoIP vulnerabilities? While your team members may know about how cybercriminals are using email to gain access to systems and networks, they may not be aware of how vulnerabilities in VoIP systems are being exploited by hackers in today’s ever-evolving threat landscape.
For example, one way cybercriminals can steal information is eavesdropping, where they essentially listen in on conversations for login credentials, names, and potential blackmail opportunities.
Vishing is another way hackers use VoIP to collect information from their targets. To trick their victims into thinking they’re speaking with legitimate organizations, cybercriminals manipulate caller IDs by exploiting vulnerabilities in unencrypted VoIP systems. When hackers use caller IDs similar to yours, they put your company’s reputation at risk, so remind your employees to report any vishing complaints they receive from your customers.
Protect your VoIP network by ensuring your passwords are strong, encrypting your VoIP calls, using a VPN, and educating your employees about how hackers are exploiting VoIP vulnerabilities.
When you take the proper precautions, your VoIP system is better protected from cybercriminals.