Learn about Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP)

With this introduction to VoIP, you can use the Internet to make calls instead of relying solely on phones with separate lines. In this article, however, we do not go into too much detail on VoIP, but only offer some security risks in this technology, thereby taking measures to reduce those risks.

So what is VoIP?

VoIP is short for Voice over Internet Protocol, which allows you to use an Internet connection to make calls. Instead of relying on the same line as the communication phone system, VoIP uses digital and requires a high-speed broadband connection such as DSL or cable. There are many different providers offering VoIP and many other services. The most common application of VoIP for personal or home use is Internet-based telephone services with telephone switching. With this application, you still need to have a phone number, still have to dial to make a call like normal use. The person you call will not see a difference compared to the calls from the traditional phone system. Many service providers also offer features to use your VoIP adapter wherever there is a high-speed Internet connection, allowing you to take it with you when traveling or traveling.

What is the security issue of VoIP?

Because VoIP is based on an Internet connection, it can have weaknesses for any threats and problems that your computer faces. This technology is also a new technology, so there is much debate about possible attacks, VoIP may also be attacked by viruses and other malicious codes. Attackers can intercept communications, eavesdrop, and perform phishing attacks by manipulating your ID and spoiling your service (see also Learn about Denial of Service and Denial of Service attacks). blocking attacks to steal information). Actions that consume large amounts of network resources such as downloading files, playing online games . also affect VoIP services.

In addition to these problems, VoIP inherits the main problems in routing on broadband connections. Unlike traditional phone systems, you can call when you lose power. In a VoIP system, if the power is lost, VoIP cannot make a call. There are also some related issues that are home security systems or emergency numbers that may not work as expected.

What do you do to avoid risks when using VoIP?

• Continuous software upgrade - If the software vendor provides patches for the operating system, you should install them immediately. That will prevent attacks that are taking advantage of vulnerabilities in software vulnerabilities (see more article Understanding vulnerabilities).

• Use and maintain anti-virus software - Anti-virus software can recognize and protect computers against defined viruses. However, the attacker is always looking for ways to write new viruses, so you must regularly update the virus software (read the section Learn about virus software).

• Make full use of security options - Many providers can provide encryption services. If your job involves a lot of privacy and security issues, consider these available options as well.

• Installing and enabling firewalls - Firewalls can prevent many types of intrusion by blocking dangerous traffic before they enter your computer (see also Understanding firewall).

• Evaluate security settings - Both your computer and VoIP devices / software provide various features that can be equipped for your needs. However, enabling specific features can leave you with vulnerable vulnerabilities. So disable some features if you feel unnecessary. Check your settings, set up your own security and choose the options you need to avoid unnecessary risks.