Your October VoIP News Update is here! Tune in to get all the latest and greatest news within the VoIP Community. In this month’s episode, we go into detail on VoIP Supply’s new GSA Contract! That’s right folks, VoIP Supply is now ready to help support the Education Sector, as well as State, Local, and Federal Government! We are beyond thrilled to solve problems and create solutions for these sectors and more!
Also in this episode, we’ll cover a brand-new DECT solution from Linkvil by Fanvil! The new W610D and W710D DECT Phone and Base Station is a cost-effective solution and reliable solution for offices, warehouses, and so much more. Watch the video for all the details on this exciting new release from Linkvil by Fanvil!
Are you currently in the market for a new DECT solutions? Let us know in the comments below what you think of Linkvil by Fanvil’s new W610D and W710D Dect Solution!
Paging Dr. Smith, Clean Up Aisle 2, Johnny Report to the Office, Lost Car Key at Customer Service, etc. These are just some of the things you may hear on a daily basis over an IP Paging System. However, IP Paging Systems have become critical solutions for safety and security purposes. These systems have gone beyond the scope of just formal announcements and created devices to help keep everyone safe, alert, and aware. The last thing you would want to happen is to have your IP Paging System hacked or breached in any way deeming it utterly useless when you may need it the most. To ensure your IP Paging System remains safe and secure, follow these best practices to minimize risks and protect your communications infrastructure.
Implement Network Segmentation
Start by segmenting your network. Place the IP Paging System on its own VLAN (Virtual Local Area Network), separate from other critical services like email and VoIP phone systems. This isolation helps contain any potential breach and limits the exposure of your core network to unauthorized access or attacks.
How?
Create a dedicated VLAN for your IP paging devices.
Configure access control lists (ACLs) to limit traffic between VLANs.
Use a firewall to monitor and filter traffic to the paging system.
Use Strong Authentication
Weak or default login credentials are one of the most common vulnerabilities in IP devices. Ensure all administrative access to your IP Paging System is protected with strong, unique passwords. Whenever possible, implement multi-factor authentication (MFA) to add an extra layer of security.
How?
Replace default usernames and passwords immediately after installation.
Use complex passwords with a mix of characters, numbers, and symbols.
Enable MFA for administrator logins if supported by your IP paging system.
Encrypt Communication
Ensure that your IP Paging System supports and uses secure communication protocols, such as TLS (Transport Layer Security) and SRTP (Secure Real-Time Transport Protocol), to encrypt voice and control data. This prevents unauthorized eavesdropping or manipulation of messages as they are transmitted over the network.
How?
Check if your IP Paging System supports encryption protocols like TLS or SRTP.
Enable encryption in the systemâs configuration settings.
Regularly update encryption certificates and protocols to maintain security.
Keep Firmware Updated
Manufacturers frequently release firmware updates to patch known vulnerabilities and improve system security. Regularly check for updates to your IP Paging System and apply them as soon as they become available.
How?
Set up notifications for firmware updates from your system manufacturer.
Test updates in a controlled environment before deploying them to production systems.
Create a regular schedule for checking and applying firmware updates.
Monitor System Activity
Proactively monitoring your IP Paging System for suspicious activity can help you detect and mitigate potential threats before they escalate. Use network monitoring tools to track traffic and set up alerts for unusual patterns, such as repeated login attempts or traffic spikes.
How?
Enable logging on your IP Paging System to capture access and event data.
Use network monitoring tools like SNMP (Simple Network Management Protocol) or syslog to track activity.
Set up alerts for failed login attempts or significant changes in traffic volume.
Disable Unused Features
IP Paging Systems often come with features that may not be necessary for your particular use case, such as remote access or unused protocols. Disable any unnecessary features to reduce the potential attack surface of your system.
How?
Review all enabled features and services in the system settings.
Disable remote access features unless absolutely necessary.
Turn off unused protocols or ports to minimize vulnerabilities.
Regularly Review Security Policies
The security needs of your IP Paging System may evolve over time. Conduct regular reviews of your security policies, including user access permissions, encryption standards, and network configurations, to ensure they remain up to date with best practices.
How?
Schedule routine audits of your paging systemâs security settings.
Reevaluate user permissions and remove access for inactive users.
Stay informed about new security threats and adjust your policies accordingly.
Securing your IP Paging System is critical to ensuring the safety and reliability of your communication network. By following these best practicesâsuch as network segmentation, strong authentication, encryption, and regular updatesâyou can minimize vulnerabilities and protect your system from potential attacks. Stay proactive, monitor your system closely, and always be ready to adapt to new security challenges as they emerge. If you have comments or questions leave them below, chat with one of our VoIP Experts at www.voipsupply.com, or call us at 1-800-398-8647.
The time has come to make a switch from NEC, but we understand that is not a decision to be made lightly. Tune in to our exclusive webinar that breaks down why Sangoma is the right choice for making such a big business decision.
This webinar will cover how Sangoma can significantly enhance your business communications, save money, and make the transition as smooth as possible.
Are you having to switch off of NEC? What are your thoughts on moving to Sangoma? Let us know in the comments below!
S33 DECT Handset: Offers exceptional voice clarity and reliable connectivity for uninterrupted conversations. With durable construction, secure features, and over-the-air updates, this handset meets all your needs.
02351000 DECT Media Resource: This device adapts to your telephony needs, perfect for large enterprises. Supports up to 32 calls, includes rack cabinet for IP-DECT Server 6500, 30 users, and power supply.
Hot-Line Industrial Wall-Phone, No Dialer: This phone is programmable to dial a 1-32 digit telephone number each time the phoneâs handset is lifted. It may be programmed to touch tone or pulse dial and will not dial on incoming calls. Also Available in Ash
Poly G7500 Video Conferencing System: Experience meetings like never before with the Poly G7500’s 4k camera and intuitive BT remote. Enjoy seamless connectivity with a 3.6M CAT 5E LAN cable and reliable power from the NEMA 5-15 system.
I donât know about you but when I heard the word encryption, I would think government, super secret, James Bond, Mission Impossible-type stuff. However, I soon learned that the more technology advances, the more advanced the protections needed to protect this technology from hackers, cyber threats, viruses, and more. This is where encryption becomes an everyday term that is one of the necessary tools to protect against advanced security threats. This includes VoIP Systems and the hardware and software essential to many organizations worldwide. Letâs learn a bit more about encryption and its significance regarding VoIP Systems.
Q: Why is encryption essential for VoIP?
A: Encryption safeguards sensitive information, such as personal details or business data, from interception during VoIP calls. By encrypting the voice traffic, VoIP systems convert voice signals into unreadable data that only authorized users with the decryption key can interpret. This prevents attackers from eavesdropping on the call.
Q: How does encryption in VoIP work?
A: Encryption protocols like Secure Real-Time Transport Protocol (SRTP) and Transport Layer Security (TLS) ensure that VoIP data, both voice and signaling, is protected in transit. SRTP encrypts the media stream, while TLS secures the session’s initiation, guaranteeing the communicationâs confidentiality and integrity.
Q: What risks do unencrypted VoIP calls face?
A: Unencrypted VoIP calls can be susceptible to eavesdropping, data theft, or man-in-the-middle attacks, where an attacker could intercept and potentially manipulate the communication. This puts sensitive information at risk and may lead to financial or reputational damage for businesses.
Q: What are some VoIP Products that support SRTP and TLS security?
A: Cisco 8845 IP Phone: Supports both SRTP and TLS for encrypted VoIP communication, making it suitable for secure environments like business offices.
Poly VVX 450: A high-performance VoIP phone supporting SRTP and TLS to secure voice calls in a wide variety of enterprise settings.
Yealink SIP-T46U: This phone is designed for business users and offers secure VoIP communication through the use of TLS and SRTP, protecting voice data during transmission and ensuring privacy across VoIP networks.
Grandstream GXP2170:This enterprise-grade IP phone supports SRTP and TLS encryption, offering secure and high-quality voice communication.
Fanvil X6U-V2:A professional VoIP phone with built-in support for SRTP and TLS, providing secure calling for businesses of all sizes.
Now when I hear the word encryption, I think about an essential tool to protect voIP Systems against cyber threats or data theft of any kind. Encryption plays a critical role in securing VoIP communication by ensuring data privacy and protecting against cyber threats. As businesses increasingly adopt VoIP systems, encrypting calls is one of the most effective ways to maintain secure communication channels. If you have any questions or comments you can leave them below, chat with one of our VoIP Experts at www.voipsupply.com, or call us at 1-800-398-8647.
It seems like everywhere we turn there are new threats, new warnings, and new ways cyber attackers are attempting to steal our data and break into our systems. Sadly, this is most likely only going to get worse with technology making advances every day and the addition of AI. Will the robots soon take over? Maybe. However, for now, we need to be aware that every type of technology is susceptible to cyber threats, including VoIP Systems. Letâs explore how VoIP systems are vulnerable to DDoS attacks and what you can do to prepare.
Why Are VoIP Systems Vulnerable to DDoS Attacks?
VoIP systems use the internet to transmit voice data packets in real-time, which makes them sensitive to any interruptions in network performance. During a DDoS attack, attackers flood the network with excessive traffic, causing service degradation or complete failure. Here are a few reasons why VoIP systems are particularly vulnerable:
Bandwidth Sensitivity: VoIP relies on stable and sufficient bandwidth to ensure clear voice communication. DDoS attacks can overwhelm your available bandwidth, causing dropped calls, poor audio quality, or even complete service outages.
Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) Weaknesses: SIP is widely used in VoIP systems to initiate and manage voice sessions. Attackers exploit weaknesses in SIP protocols, sending malformed or excessive requests that overload the system.
Publicly Accessible Networks: VoIP systems often operate over public internet connections, which means they can be exposed to external threats without proper security measures in place.
The Impact of DDoS Attacks on VoIP
A successful DDoS attack can have severe consequences on a businessâs VoIP system, including:
Disruption of communication: DDoS attacks can cripple your phone lines, causing communication breakdowns and loss of productivity.
Financial losses: Extended downtime can lead to missed business opportunities, lost revenue, and potential reputational damage.
Increased vulnerability: While VoIP systems are under attack, other vulnerabilities could be exploited, opening the door for further breaches like data theft.
How to Defend Your VoIP System Against DDoS Attacks
Now that weâve established how dangerous DDoS attacks can be for your VoIP system, letâs dive into how you can protect your business from these threats.
An SBC acts as a security gateway between your VoIP network and external traffic. It filters out malicious traffic, ensuring that only legitimate requests reach your VoIP system. By monitoring and controlling the flow of traffic, SBCs help mitigate DDoS attacks and protect the integrity of your voice communication system.
Implement Bandwidth Management
To protect your VoIP system from getting overwhelmed, implement bandwidth management tools that prioritize VoIP traffic. This ensures that essential voice communication gets the bandwidth it needs, even during high traffic loads, reducing the risk of service disruption.
While traditional firewalls offer some protection, VoIP-specific firewalls are optimized to detect and block SIP-based threats. These firewalls are designed to handle the unique traffic patterns of VoIP systems, filtering out malicious requests that could compromise your network.
Monitor Network Traffic
Proactively monitoring your network traffic can help you detect unusual activity before it escalates into a full-blown attack. By setting up alerts for abnormal traffic spikes, you can quickly identify and respond to potential DDoS attacks before they cause major disruptions.
Set Up Redundancy
Building redundancy into your VoIP network can minimize the impact of DDoS attacks. By having backup servers or multiple VoIP providers, you can ensure that your business communications remain functional even if one system is compromised.
Work with a Secure VoIP Provider
Partnering with a secure VoIP service provider that offers DDoS protection can be one of the most effective ways to safeguard your system. Many VoIP providers have built-in security features, such as DDoS mitigation and traffic filtering, to keep your communications secure.
VoIP systems are powerful tools for modern businesses, but they also come with risks, including vulnerability to DDoS attacks. By understanding these risks and taking proactive steps to secure your network, you can protect your VoIP system from disruption and ensure your business stays connected. Whether itâs deploying SBCs, using VoIP-specific firewalls, or working with a secure VoIP provider, defending against DDoS attacks requires a comprehensive approach to network security.Don’t wait until your VoIP system is compromised. Start implementing these defenses today and ensure your communication channels remain reliable and secure. If you have any questions or comments you can leave them below, chat with one of our VoIP Experts at www.voipsupply.com, or call us at 1-800-398-8647.
October is Cyber Security Awareness Month and VoIP Supply is dedicated to bringing you news, resources, and information to keep you and your systems protected!
Whoâs not worried about cyber attacks these days? If one of the largest companies in the world can get hacked, how am I supposed to protect myself and my business? Letâs not be the next Microsoft, shall we?
As VoIP systems become more integrated into business communications, they become a prime target for cybercriminals. Protecting your VoIP network involves identifying hacking attempts early and deploying appropriate mitigation strategies. Here’s how you can secure your network:
Identifying VoIP Hacking Attempts
Monitor for Unusual Activity: One of the first signs of VoIP hacking is abnormal call behavior. This can manifest as an unexpected increase in call volume, especially international or premium-rate numbers.
Look for IP Spoofing or Data Leaks: Hackers may spoof their IP addresses or exploit vulnerabilities in your system to steal data. If you notice unexpected IP addresses or irregular data traffic, this could indicate a breach. Pay close attention to the flow of calls and ensure all call records match the expected behavior for your network.
Inspect Call Quality: A sudden drop in call quality can be a sign of a VoIP attack like a Denial of Service (DoS) or eavesdropping attempt. Hackers often slow down or disrupt VoIP services as part of their strategy to exploit your network.
Mitigating VoIP Hacking Attempts
Use Firewalls and Session Border Controllers (SBCs): SBCs act as gatekeepers, managing all inbound and outbound VoIP traffic. They can help prevent unauthorized users from accessing your network and detect unusual traffic patterns. A firewall ensures that only approved traffic gets through, while an SBC adds an extra layer of security to manage traffic flow.
Encryption and Authentication: Ensure your VoIP calls are encrypted to protect sensitive information during transmission. Encrypting SIP (Session Initiation Protocol) traffic helps secure the communication stream, making it difficult for attackers to intercept calls. Also, multi-factor authentication (MFA) adds an extra layer of security for users logging in to the system, protecting it from credential-based attacks.
Regular Security Audits and Patch Management: Regularly audit your network for potential vulnerabilities. Many hacking attempts exploit known weaknesses in systems that haven’t been patched. Always update software, firmware, and security patches on your VoIP systems to close these gaps. Periodically reviewing your configuration and applying best practices also helps keep security tight.
Training Employees and Limiting Access
Educating your employees about phishing, social engineering, and safe internet usage practices is essential for maintaining a secure network. Limiting the number of users who can access sensitive system settings, and employing role-based access control (RBAC), reduces the likelihood of internal attacks.
By being proactive in identifying suspicious activities, implementing the right security tools, and ensuring constant monitoring and training, you can significantly reduce the risks of VoIP hacking attempts. In an age where communication security is crucial, taking these steps helps maintain the integrity of your VoIP systems and protect your organization from cyber threats. If you have any comments or questions you can leave them below, chat with one of our VoIP Experts at www.voipsupply.com, or call us at 1-800-398-8647.
October is Cyber Security Awareness Month and VoIP Supply is dedicated to bringing you news, resources, and information to keep you and your systems protected!
Q: What are the main differences in security between VoIP and traditional phone systems?
A: The primary difference between VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) security and traditional phone systems is the technology used to transmit calls. Conventional phone systems use circuit-switched networks, which provide inherent security features due to their analog nature. These systems rely on physical lines that are harder to intercept without direct access. In contrast, VoIP operates over the internet, exposing it to cyber threats such as hacking, eavesdropping, and Denial of Service (DoS) attacks.
Q: What specific vulnerabilities does VoIP face?
A: VoIP systems are vulnerable to a range of security threats, including:
Eavesdropping: Since VoIP calls are transmitted over the internet, they can be intercepted using tools designed for packet sniffing. This means that sensitive conversations could be compromised if proper encryption is not utilized.
DoS Attacks: Attackers can overwhelm VoIP systems with traffic, rendering them unusable. This can disrupt business communications and lead to significant downtime.
Caller ID Spoofing: VoIP systems can easily manipulate caller ID information, making it difficult to verify the identity of the person calling.
To mitigate these risks, VoIP providers typically implement security measures such as encryption protocols (e.g., Secure Real-Time Transport Protocol, or SRTP) and firewalls specifically designed for VoIP traffic.
Q: What specific vulnerabilities do Traditional Phone Systems face?
A: Traditional phone systems have built-in security advantages due to their closed network infrastructure. The physical connection between users makes it more challenging for outsiders to tap into calls without access to the hardware. Moreover, calls are typically not digitized, which minimizes the risk of data breaches associated with digital formats.
Traditional Phone Systems, although sometimes considered to be more secure than VoIP Systems, still face their fair share of threats, including:
Physical Tampering: Traditional phone lines can be susceptible to physical attacks, where an intruder might gain unauthorized access to a phone line or hardware to listen in on conversations or disrupt service. This vulnerability is often overlooked in favor of digital threats, but physical security is crucial.
Social Engineering: Attackers may exploit human factors through social engineering tactics, tricking individuals into revealing sensitive information, such as account details or passwords. These tactics can bypass technological security measures entirely, relying on the manipulation of personnel instead.
PBX Hacking: Private Branch Exchange (PBX) systems, which manage internal phone networks, can be targeted for hacking. Vulnerabilities in PBX systems can lead to toll fraud, where attackers make unauthorized long-distance calls, resulting in significant financial losses for businesses.
Q: What security measures can enhance VoIP security?
A: To enhance the security of VoIP systems, organizations can adopt several best practices:
Use Strong Passwords: Ensure that all devices and accounts are protected with strong, unique passwords.
Implement Network Segmentation: Keep VoIP traffic separate from other types of internet traffic to minimize exposure to attacks.
Regular Software Updates: Keep all VoIP equipment and software updated to protect against known vulnerabilities.
Utilize Encryption: Encrypting voice traffic adds a layer of security that can help safeguard sensitive information.
By understanding these differences and implementing appropriate security measures, organizations can better protect their communication systems, regardless of whether they use traditional telephony or VoIP technology. If you have any questions or comments you can leave them below, chat with one of our VoIP Experts at www.voipsupply.com, or call us at 1-800-398-8647.
VoIP Supply, North Americaâs leading provider of VoIP solutions, is proud to announce its new partnership with Bogen Communications, a long-established leader in the commercial audio and paging industry. As an official distributor, VoIP Supply will now offer a variety of Bogenâs products, broadening its portfolio to better serve customersâ communication needs across multiple industries.
âWeâre thrilled to add Bogen’s IP paging and mass notification solutions to our portfolio, as it allows us to provide even more comprehensive communication tools for our customers while continuing our commitment to quality and support,â said Mary Cheney, Marketing Manager at VoIP Supply.
Bogen Communications offers a diverse range of audio and paging solutions, including:
Paging Systems: Offering IP-based and analog paging options, there are models for schools, hospitals, and large commercial spaces, Bogen’s paging systems provide reliable, clear communication across vast areas.
Intercom Systems: Essential for security and day-to-day operations, Bogenâs intercom solutions are used in educational institutions and office environments to ensure efficient communication.
Speakers & Amplifiers: Designed for performance and clarity, Bogenâs speakers and amplifiers are perfect for conference rooms, public spaces, and event venues where high-quality sound is critical.
Sound Masking Systems: For environments where privacy and focus are key, Bogenâs sound masking systems create comfortable, distraction-free spaces in open office layouts.
The Bogen 8″ Ceiling Speaker: a high-quality audio speaker that blends into ceilings perfect for offices, retail spaces, and more.
Bogen Communicationâs product offerings are a natural fit with VoIP Supply’s commitment to delivering high-quality communication solutions. Bogenâs dependable, high-performance audio systems meet the needs of many of VoIP Supplyâs customers, specifically for industries where clear, secure, and scalable solutions are essential.
âBogen is excited to have VoIP Supply join our network of distribution partners,â said Christian Collette, Regional Sales Manager at Bogen Communications. âWe look forward working with them in their continued efforts to provide customers with top-tier products and support.â
With the addition of Bogenâs products, VoIP Supply continues to expand its comprehensive selection of business communication tools, ensuring customers have access to the latest technology to improve productivity and communication efficiency.
For more information on Bogen products available at VoIP Supply, visit www.voipsupply.com and chat with us or give us a call at 1-800-398-8647.
We’re back with another episode of the VoIP News Update! For September’s edition, we will closely examine Grandstream’s new GCC Series, its products, and how they can help ease small to medium businesses into the VoIP world!
Additionally, we’ll cover new updates to Fanvil‘s Devie Management System! One exciting highlight that we note is their brand new mobile app that can help you take FDMS anywhere you go!
Have you considered using Grandstream‘s new GCC Series? How useful do you think Fanvil’s new mobile app will be? Leave a comment below and let us know!
