How Secure is VoIP?

With an increasing amount of businesses switching to internet-based communication services, a lot of companies are wondering how secure VoIP is. 

From small start-up companies to huge enterprises, all businesses are geared towards efficiency. Whether you work in real estate, domiciliary care or construction, accomplishing tasks in the best possible way is bound to be a priority. 

Luckily, technology has evolved to meet this need for efficiency, especially in the realm of telecommunications. One perfect example is the cloud-based VoIP (Voice-over Internet Protocol) telephony system. 

Equipped with a range of features, VoIP has transformed the world of business communications. With easy-to-use call management features, lower cost and higher call quality, there is no wonder why VoIP is such a popular choice. 

However, since the introduction of internet-based communication systems, there has been one big question on everyone's lips - how secure is VoIP? 

The concern is understandable. If a business communication system is compromised, the results could potentially be disastrous, resulting in leaked data and severe damage to the company's funds and reputation. 

So is VoIP secure? Are there extra measures we can take for further protection? Let's take a closer look. 

VoIP Security Risks 

First things first, VoIP is fundamentally a very secure communications system. However, much like with any device, it is important to be aware of potential security risks. 

• Malware. One of the most common forms of attack across all internet-based devices, malware software allows hackers access to sensitive information. 
  
  
• Denial of Service. One of the biggest threats to VoIP services specifically, DoS shuts down or reduces network operability, allowing cyber criminals to infiltrate the network with bugs and viruses. 
  
  
• 'Vishing'. Similar to the well-known threat of phishing, 'vishing' occurs when calls are diverted by attackers to malicious parties, usually requesting access to caller's financial or personal details. 
  
  
• Spam. Hackers can infiltrate the VoIP network and use this to send out fraudulent messages, affecting the company's reputation.
  
  
• Call Interception. Another more common VoIP threat occurs when an outside party successfully infiltrates a VoIP call and poses as someone they are not.
  
  

vOiP Security Best Practices

Regardless of dangers, there are a number of best practices you can take with your VoIP system to ensure maximum security. 

• Password Protection. It sounds like an obvious solution, but it is surprising how many VoIP users forget to secure their systems. Setting strong passwords for servers, routers, firewalls and so forth is an easy way to instantly improve how secure your VoIP system is. 
  
  
• VPN Networks. Setting up a virtual private network is a great way to deliver secure VoIP information via the internet, with little risk. 
  
  
• Data Encryption. Encrypting data ensures that even if messages transmitted via your VoIP phone are intercepted, they will be unreadable. This is particularly beneficial if your business deals with a lot of sensitive information (such as in the case of financial companies, for instance). 
  
  
• Choose a Reliable Provider. One of the best ways to ensure VoIP security is choosing to work with a professional and knowledgeable telecoms team who can provide support and help your business to migrate to a VoIP solution without leaving any security-related weak spots.
  
  

VoIP vs. Pbx Security

If you are trying to choose between a VoIP phone system and on-premise PBX, it is likely that security is a significant factor. 

The main difference between PBX and VoIP systems is the fact that PBX utilises physical, on-site hardware, whilst VoIP is powered by internet connection and can be accessed from anywhere. 

These different forms of connectivity each come with their own risk. For example, as the PBX system is fully on-site, if access is gained by a malicious bug or virus, the entire system could shut down. This might result in extended downtime, and costly repairs. 

Alternatively, the fact that VoIP systems are exposed to the internet opens them up to different risks that on-premise software will not experience. 

It is worth bearing in mind, however, that the PSTN switch-off in 2025 will signal the end of on-premise business phone systems that utilise copper lines, and a drastic shift towards internet based communication systems. 

For this reason, choosing a secure cloud-based communication solution, such as VoIP or cloud PBX/SD-WAN, is the best way to prepare your business for the future.

Secure VoIP Solutions

Fundamentally, there will always be risks attached to any form of technological advancement. However, if your team takes the correct precautions and security measures, cloud-based communications are just as safe (if not safer) than traditional phone systems. 

Your Comms Group provide a range of professional and secure VoIP solutions designed to help businesses maximise efficiency and keep systems safe from attacks. To find out more about our bespoke VoIP service, get in touch with our team today.