Last week, we spent some time covering the various threats that can be posed to a hotel's VoIP network. Although the very idea of these types of risks might have made you feel a little bit jumpy, the fact is that there's nothing to fear -- as long as you're being vigilant about security. We discussed the fact that knowing your "enemy" is the first step to countering cyber attacks. In this second part of our series, we will go over the tactics that you can deploy as a means of mitigating risk and avoiding any trouble. Mitigating VoIP Security Threats
Just because there are threats associated with VoIP systems doesn't mean that you should close the door on the IP-based system and dismiss its usage within your hotel. Regardless of the type of system that you use, you will always find that you are faced with certain risks. The key is in anticipating these problems and taking countermeasures against them. Here are a few smart ways to avoid threats to your VoIP communication network's security:
1. Make Use of Firewalls
You'll find that the vast majority of VoIP providers are well aware of the possible risks within their systems. As a result, their services will come readily equipped with the security measures that are most appropriate and best-suited to combating these potential issues. Even so, there's more that you can -- and should -- do to mitigate risk. It's always a good idea to boost the effectiveness of any existing system measures with the installation of a VoIP-ready firewall, which will take into account any added threats of IP telephony and control them.
2. Encryption
Don't want people listening in on your private conversations and possibly recording your interactions with guests, vendors, or employees? The simplest and most effective solution is to deploy various encryption protection techniques. Encryption protocols make it quite easy to stop eavesdropping. Most VoIP software will come with encryption tools already installed, so make sure that you understand them and take advantage of their functionality. Otherwise, you can make use of tools such as Zfone. Finally, make use of a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to ensure that all data being transferred within your network is encrypted.
3. Maintain Both Physical and Digital Security
Any hotel utilizing VoIP technology should take care to stay up-to-date on all of the latest anti-virus tools. While installing an anti-virus tool upon the initial setup of your IP-based network is essential, it's equally important to not forget to evaluate your tools from time to time and make sure that they're able to keep up with the most current threats to cybersecurity. Updated anti-virus tools will ensure that these threats are kept out of your network and phone system. Be mindful of the fact, however, that attackers that have physical access to the components of your VoIP system may have the ability to inappropriately gather your confidential information. This means that you'll also need to maintain your physical security standards as well.
4. Avoid Softphone Systems
A softphone system allows for IP calls by making use of only a computer, headset, and VoIP software. The problem here is that the system is entirely maintained on a machine that is prone to a countless number of digital threats day in and day out. Choosing to use VoIP "hard phones" will knock out the majority of these threats while also offering superior voice quality and services.
No matter what the technology, you'll always find that business threats are involved, but that doesn't mean that your hotel needs to remain in the dark ages. By understanding the possible risks, you'll be able to anticipate and prevent them with confidence and ease. Learn more about mitigating VoIP security threats by contacting the experts at PhoneSuite today.
