Eavesdropping is a cyberattack wherein hackers obtain and record Voice over IP (VoIP) phone conversations, usually to steal confidential information. This is done without the victim’s knowledge or consent. VoIP eavesdropping can be done by installing a VoIP sniffer on the company’s network, or by hacking into the user’s device. To prevent VoIP eavesdropping, businesses should take the following measures:
Change default usernames and passwords
The first thing you need to do is to change the default password and username of your VoIP system. Many businesses don't bother to do this, but it's an essential security measure. By changing the default login credentials, you make it harder for hackers to gain access to your system. You can do this by logging into the admin panel of your VoIP system and changing the password.
Keep your VoIP system updated
Hackers are always looking for vulnerabilities in software. As such, it’s important to keep your VoIP system up to-date with the latest security patches. Check with your handset vendor regularly for updates and install them as soon as possible.
Keep your session border controllers (SBCs) updated
When you update your session border controllers, you’ll be updating your VoIP’s antivirus software, which means your systems are better protected from all known types of malware. This also helps to ensure that your calls aren’t being rerouted through malicious VoIP servers, which could be used to eavesdrop on conversations.
Use a VPN or SRTP
Phone calls made over the internet are transmitted in the form of data packets. If these packets are intercepted, anyone can listen in on your conversations. To prevent this from happening, you need to encrypt your VoIP calls.
You can do this by using a virtual private network, which encrypts all the data passing through your device. Alternatively, you can use Secure Real-Time Transport Protocol, a VoIP security protocol that encrypts voice calls.
Train your employees
Your employees need to be aware of the dangers of VoIP eavesdropping. Teach them not to give out confidential information over the phone and make sure they know how to spot signs that someone may be trying to listen in on their conversations.
VoIP eavesdropping is a serious threat, but these steps you can take to protect your conversations. If you want to know more about how to secure your business, feel free to contact us today.