Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) systems are a convenient and cost-effective solution for businesses, but they also present unique security challenges. A successful hack can have serious consequences, from financial loss to compromised client information. Being aware of the red flags — such as sudden drops in call quality or suspicious account changes — can help you detect and respond to a potential attack before it escalates. Learn what to look out for to keep your VoIP system secure.
Warning signs of a compromised VoIP system
Here are some key indicators that your VoIP system may have been hacked:
Unexpected call activity
One of the most obvious signs of a VoIP hack is unusual call patterns. This can include a high volume of international calls, calls made outside of business hours, or calls to unfamiliar or premium-rate numbers. Suspicious activity that doesn’t align with your typical usage should be investigated immediately.
Unexplained charges
Unexpected or inflated bills are a red flag. Hackers often exploit VoIP systems to make expensive international or premium-rate calls, leaving the business to foot the bill. If you notice unexplained charges on your VoIP account, you could be dealing with a security breach.
Reduced call quality
A sudden drop in call quality, such as frequent disconnections, delays, or poor audio quality, could indicate that your VoIP system is under attack. Hackers can drain system resources, causing network congestion and degrading service performance.
Unauthorized account changes
If you notice changes to your VoIP account settings, such as altered passwords, modified call forwarding rules, or new user accounts you didn’t create, it’s a strong indication that your system has been accessed by unauthorized users. These changes can facilitate further unauthorized access or data theft.
Increased bandwidth usage
Unusual spikes in bandwidth usage could be a sign that your VoIP system is being used for activities outside of normal operations. For example, hackers might be using your system for their own calls or transferring large amounts of data from your network.
How to respond to a VoIP security breach
If you suspect your VoIP system has been compromised, here’s what you should do:
- Disconnect from the network: Isolate your VoIP system from the network to stop hackers from gaining further access.
- Reset all passwords: Immediately change all account passwords to new and unique ones, especially for admin accounts and any accounts that have been accessed without authorization.
- Check your call logs and account settings: Review your call logs and account settings for any unauthorized activity. Look for unfamiliar call destinations, changes to call forwarding settings, or the addition of new users. Correct any changes and make note of suspicious activities for reporting.
- Update your software: Make sure your VoIP system’s software, including any associated hardware, is up to date. Software updates often have security patches that address vulnerabilities.
- Contact your VoIP provider: Reach out to your VoIP provider as soon as possible to report the issue. They can help investigate the breach, identify the source, and provide additional security measures to prevent future incidents.
- Implement additional security measures: Consider using a virtual private network for VoIP traffic, setting up firewalls to restrict access, and monitoring network activity more closely. Also, review and amend your security policies regularly to ensure they are effective new threats.
By being aware of these key indicators and taking proactive steps to protect your VoIP system, you can significantly reduce the risk of a successful hack and safeguard your business’s communication infrastructure. If you’re unsure about the security of your VoIP system or need assistance implementing stronger safeguards, reach out to our team. We are always ready to help.