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VOIP security has been an issue for the industry almost since its conception, for the providers. Many consumers seem to be uninformed or just uninterested when it comes to protecting their communications. Experts believe that this apathy stems from the fact that VOIP has yet to suffer any real attacks to date.

There are several scenarios that have been predicted when it comes to the downside of VOIP security. One of them is phishing scams similar to those that have bombarded the email industry. Criminal minds are hard at work devising ways to pick the pockets of the VOIP users. These bad guys will use a system to call the VOIP customer and request bank information. They may even provide a website or phone number that seems official. Some of these attacks have already occurred, but they are not widespread and are not receiving much press.

Hackers are not just about the almighty dollar – they are about fame. For some criminals, just hurting a company (and making it to the news) is payment enough. These bad guys will look to breakthrough the weak VOIP security in order to paralyze the phone system of a company. They may also demand a ransom in order to release the phone system.

Currently, the risk of wide spread attack is not that high. Because VOIP has not yet made it to the mainstream, the numbers are not there to entice the attackers. That does not mean that it is a time to relax. Providers, and subscribers, still need to make VOIP security a priority. No one wants to be the one hit that sets off the warning in the industry. Unfortunately, it may have to be that someone is hurt before the public (and the media) pay attention.

There are many companies that are leading the charge for VOIP security. BorderWare Technologies and the NEC Corporation are just two of the industry leaders who are seeking to secure the technology before it can be exploited.

By Kathryn Lang