VoIP Security: Vulnerabilities and Best Practices

“Is VoIP secure?”

This is a question we’re frequently asked by the UK businesses who get in touch with us to ask about switching to this modern, cost-effective, highly flexible digital communication technology.

Our answer is “YES!”

If we continue to use strong cybersecurity practices, VoIP can be secure. We can protect ourselves from cyberattack, keep sensitive or confidential data safe and enjoy the huge benefits that VoIP can provide.

Today, we’d like to answer this question in more detail, first explaining the specific potential VoIP cybervulnerabilities. Then we’ll explain how you can protect your business from cyberthreats and how you can get help, if needed.

Of course, all digital technologies are vulnerable to cyberattack. In fact, as one recent study pointed out, around 87% of all UK businesses could become victims of this type of crime. VoIP technologies are no different in this respect.

Here are the five main VoIP security vulnerabilities you should consider.

When using VoIP, you’ll be transmitting voice data over the internet that could be intercepted if you don’t take the right steps to protect your confidential or private business data.

This voice data can be intercepted by those who wish to do harm, especially if you haven’t secured your connection.

VoIP systems are vulnerable to phishing and vishing – where individuals or businesses are tricked into sharing sensitive data such as passwords or financial information by pretending they are a trusted organisation, then use it to cause harm.

The same can happen with VoIP systems if left unprotected.

Cybercriminals could also target your business with malware or ransomware that compromises your devices or systems.

This can lead to sensitive or confidential information ending up in the wrong hands or cybercriminals holding communication systems hostage and demanding ransom payment to regain access.

DoS Attacks work by overwhelming a system with excess traffic. This can cause systems to fail, leading to downtime and having an obvious impact on the business and brand as a whole.

This can be especially damaging for companies reliant on VoIP for customer service or internal communication as they are unable to share information or do their job.

Finally, cybercriminals can gain unauthorised access to your VoIP system and use it to rack up huge bills if you’re using specific paid-for services. This can ramp up your overheads and cause your business to lose money.

While these security risks can seem concerning, the benefits of adopting modern digital technologies such as VoIP,  far outweigh the risks.

There are also many steps we can take to protect our sensitive data and businesses from this risk of cyberattack. We’ve put together six VoIP cybersecurity recommendations to help you protect the future of your business.

Start by ensuring your business uses strong authentication and encryption methods to prevent hackers and cybercriminals from accessing your voice data or other confidential information. We recommend two-factor authentication.

Always ensure you update your software and apply patches as soon as they are available. This helps you stay ahead of the game and helps prevent cybercriminals finding a security loophole they can take advantage of.

Firewalls and Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS) can monitor and block suspicious traffic that could potentially cause a cyberattack. We recommend that you have a reliable IDS system in place while also separating your VoIP network from other systems to limit potential vulnerabilities.

Do you know if you have experienced any unusual activity lately such as unauthorised access attempts or spikes in call volume? If not, we highly recommend that you make this a priority. Check frequently for these anomalies and you could identify potential vulnerabilities and prevent misuse.

By working with a trusted UK VoIP provider like Orbicomm, you’ll get all the security features you need to keep your business safe. We offer an excellent cybersecurity package that includes encryption, regular system updates, secure calls and fraud detection at a budget-friendly price. This allows you to enjoy total peace of mind so you can focus on what matters.

Ensure your employees receive adequate training that tells them how to use VoIP technologies and how to keep your business safe. Educate them on how to recognise phishing or vishing attempts, why it’s so important to maintain strong passwords and why and how to report suspicious activities.

The Voice Over Internet Protocol (VoIP) revolution has arrived and is transforming the efficiency and productivity of businesses across the UK.

However, as with any other digital technologies, it does carry certain security vulnerabilities that could lead to cybercriminals gaining access to your confidential or sensitive data.

By understanding the risks, educating your team and choosing a trusted provider like Orbicomm, you can mitigate these risks, enjoy the benefits of modern VoIP technology and future-proof your business.

Our team at Orbicomm can help.

Whether you have a question, concern or simply want a trusted UK business to help you migrate effortlessly and provide the support you need, we will be here for you.

Why not give us a call today?