3 VoIP Potential Security Issues

As VoIP solutions gain traction at home and at the workplace we can also expect security threats to networks to become more serious. Why? Well before only your data could be affected (did I just say only?) but with VoIP a virus could bring down your entire business with an attack, data and voice. So make yourself aware of the potential security issues before you start.

Multiple Points Of Attack
Technology is converging, we see it happening right in front of our eyes. What used to be a phone can now take calls from cell phones, receive and make VoIP calls, track inventory, organize your calendar, send emails, browse the internet etc. You get the point anyway! Your phone is on the network, so all it would take would be for your phone to let in one hacker or virus to cause major issues across the entire network. To help avoid such problems you must ensure that all periperal accessories attached to a network are running the most recent software and are properly protected behind a firewall.

Large Scale Deployments Increase Security Risks
In a large business, where many hundreds of phone calls are made every day, serious sums of money can be saved by adopting a VoIP solution. That might sound great, but you’ve got to remember that you are also complicating what can already be a sophisticated security system. Your network may already be locked down, but with VoIP you’ve got to get it right or risk losing data and voice communications. In a large corporate environment you will have more accessories to manage, which can make you more susceptible to attack. While you may save money on phone calls, that saving may be offset by larger numbers of IT and security staff.

Scanners Could Grab Your Data
If you have a WiFi network that is used to make VoIP calls then you’ll need to make sure it is rock solid. Script kiddies using standard scanning equipment can find open ports on your network, which they can then use to attack your network with viruses and other malware. Make sure you have proper procedures setup to authenticate users to protect your network from infiltration.

Unfortunately this is only scratching the surface. The bottom line is that there is a trade-off with VoIP. That is, VoIP means cheaper calls but heavier demands on your network.