'Take simple steps' to ensure VoIP security

Individuals and businesses using VoIP services can take several easy steps to ensure their calls are secure, an expert has claimed.

Mohammad Patel, chief executive officer of South African technology firm O-Tel Telecom, stated on the company's blog that setting the security of web browsers is the first stage.

The browser is the first point of entry for any incoming activity, so set it to control what comes in, he commented.

A solid firewall and robust anti-virus software are also important, the specialist added, while strong passwords are harder for hackers to crack.

Mr Patel went on to suggest using a VoIP gateway to add an extra layer of protection.

IP telephony providers are continually improving their authentication and encryption functionality, he remarked, adding "the VoIP structure is getting stronger and more developed as digital technology advances".

Deployment of cloud computing solutions such as hosted telephony is "coming of age" in large companies, with more than 80 per cent claiming to use at least one such service, a CA Technologies survey revealed recently.