Using a secure VoIP is the best solution to eliminate security threats. VoIP can be cost-effective, but companies should ensure its security.
Secure VoIP is not impossible, but it is not sure either. Companies that want to use VoIP for their communication system are most concerned about whether it is secure. To tell the truth, VoIP has several security problems, even if it is cost-effective.
It is possible to eliminate these security vulnerabilities. It cannot be said to be 100% secure for any system connected to the Internet. It is the responsibility of the VoIP service provider and user to ensure security and maintain the service quality.
Why is secure VoIP important?
Every company must ensure the security of its communication network, whether VoIP is used or not. The slightest glitch in the VoIP phone system will cause you to encounter various problems. For example, customers cannot reach you and turn to alternatives.
It is possible to see each of the problems that may occur in the business phone system as valid for the business VoIP system. It is an open target against cyber attacks since it is accessed via the Internet, and attackers want to take advantage of it.
Unlike other threats in digital environments, VoIP means discovering new opportunities for attackers. Different methods can disable VoIP networks, such as call blocking, spoofing, and denial-of-service attacks.
Attackers know that only encryption is not important in the VoIP network. Using a VoIP network is about establishing trust in communication. Problems in your communication system may put you in a problematic situation regarding brand awareness and service delivery.
What are the most important VoIP security threats?
VoIP (voice over IP) security threats mainly consist of spoofing, call blocking and denial of service. In addition, there is the use of malicious software. Companies can protect their VoIP networks with the necessary security measures.
Malware: VoIP networks can be vulnerable to malware. The network must be protected with advanced security measures for the secure VoIP implementation. It is possible to minimize the risk of malware.
Denial of Service: Denial of Service (DoS) attacks disable a network or device. When they are intended for VoIP, users cannot access the network. These attacks can be prevented by using an advanced firewall and SBC.
Phishing: Phishing is possible in VoIP networks. By introducing himself with a different identity, the attacker tries to deceive the user and take action. With the necessary security training, these attacks can be prevented.
Tampering: Call tampering is not considered a severe security threat to VoIP. However, when the attack succeeds, interaction with the customer is limited. This problem can be avoided by using end-to-end encryption for VoIP calls.
VOMIT: In VOMIT attacks, attackers try to leak data from active conversations. The information at the target is sensitive information such as passwords and the place where the call was made. It is necessary to use end-to-end encryption against VOMIT attacks.
Toll fraud: Toll fraud is a severe problem. An attacker exploits a security breach to infiltrate your system and make a profit by calling premium international numbers. Two-factor authentication is required to prevent this.
You can face these threats no matter what type of VoIP system you use. You cannot wholly avoid attacks but can reduce their effects with precautions. You should be wary of the most important VoIP security threats and monitor the VoIP traffic.
How to choose a secure VoIP service provider?
If you want to use a Secure VoIP system, you should work with the right service provider. You should make sure that the service provider meets all security requirements. You should also ensure that the specific needs associated with your industry are met.
1. Accreditations
A VoIP service provider must have some accreditation to provide a secure service. You should check these accreditations before agreeing to the service. If these are not available, you should look for alternatives.
HIPAA Compliance, PCI Compliance, SOC 2 Compliance, and ISO 27001 are the standards you should pay attention to. After asking the service provider about the accreditations, you should compare them to your needs and make the right decision.
2. Customer Satisfaction
You should pay extra attention to the communication of the VoIP service provider. You must work with a provider where communication is open and customer satisfaction is at the forefront. Because you should get support when you have problems with your VoIP service.
When you want to evaluate the service quality of a brand, you should look at whether it provides specific information. Do they make additional efforts to help you? Do they try to help you on time? You should review all of these.
3. Call Encryption Approach
Even if customer satisfaction and accreditations are important, you should not ignore data security. The VoIP service provider should support you with call encryption. If there is no such possibility, you should not make a deal.
Transport Layer Security (TLS) and Secure Real-Time Transport Protocol (SRTP) are used for call encryption. Thanks to these two security protocols, data security is ensured for each call. Also, the devices to be used for VoIP must support them.
Best practices for secure VoIP
What needs to be done to have a Secure VoIP network is not uncertain. There are some procedures to be followed in security measures. By sticking to these, you can manage to keep your VoIP network free from various threats.
Strong password usage: If you want to protect your VoIP system, using a strong password is a must. Create a password using letters, numbers, and special characters. Also, make sure that employees do not store passwords on their computers.
Update check: Make sure that the operating systems of VoIP phones are up to date. If you miss the updates released due to security measures, you will provide convenience to the malware.
Wi-Fi encryption: Ensure the WPA2 protocol is active on your company's Wi-Fi network. Have employees connect to the network via the WPA2 protocol and change the Wi-Fi password regularly.
VPN usage: Support the connection required for VoIP phones with a VPN. High-quality VPN solutions are fundamental to ensure that the connections of company employees who have to work remotely remain secure.
Call limitation: If your company serves nationally rather than globally, you will not need global phone calls. For this reason, you can make your network more secure by limiting international calls.
Security training: Ensure that all employees using the VoIP network undergo security training. Inform them of potential VoIP threats. Remind them that they are responsible for network security.
A secure VoIP network is an essential requirement. After migrating from landline phones to VoIP phones, all companies must ensure that their VoIP networks remain safe for service quality, brand reputation, and service continuity.
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