Is a VoIP Phone More Secure Than a Landline?

Many companies are switching from traditional landlines to Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) phone systems, and for good reason! Not only is VoIP one of the most reliable and cost-effective options on the market, but it is also packed with advanced capabilities that will make your workday flow easier than ever before. 

While VoIP is becoming increasingly popular, some companies are asking an important question before making the switch: is VoIP more secure than a landline? Data privacy is critical to you and your clients, so it’s important to understand which phone system will provide the best protection over your private information. To help you determine if VoIP is right for you, we’ve broken down everything you need to know about VoIP phone security:

How Secure is VoIP?

Modern VoIP phone systems are very secure. However, they operate by transmitting data packets over the Internet, which makes them as susceptible to hackers as the rest of your online information. For that reason, reputable service providers will implement rigorous security measures that keep your data encrypted and protected at all times. When properly configured and maintained, VoIP can even be HIPAA compliant for total customer and client confidentiality.

VoIP vs. Landlines

While VoIP transmits information over the Internet, landlines use a network of physical wires. Historically, that meant it was easier for hackers to intercept VoIP data because it is relatively challenging to locate and wiretap a landline. 

However, online security has significantly improved since VoIP was first introduced and it is now much harder for outsiders to gain access to your information. From firewalls and data encryption to VPNs and virus protection, there’s an endless amount of VoIP security features that will safeguard your private information – none of which are available for traditional landlines.

VoIP Phone System Security Tips

Though modern VoIP phone systems are designed to protect your private information, it’s still important for you to remain diligent about security. Taking a few preventative measures will help you prevent data breaches that could jeopardize you or your clients. To keep your phone system as secure as possible, follow these tips:

Keep Your Software Up-to-Date

Online security is constantly evolving, which is why regular software updates are so important. An outdated system could have security gaps that leave your information more vulnerable to hackers. Keeping your software up-to-date will ensure your data is protected using the most advanced features and techniques possible.

Create Strong Passwords

Most VoIP phone systems require users to login individually from each device. To improve your security, you and your employees should create strong passwords that follow these guidelines:

• Minimum of 12 characters, though more is always better
• A combination of numbers, letters, and symbols
• A mixture of upper and lower case letters
• Not words, names, or phrases that can easily be guessed
• Significantly different from passwords to other systems

While it can be a pain to create and remember unique passwords, doing so will block outsiders from accessing your private networks. If your staff has to keep track of login information for a lot of different systems, it may be helpful to invest in a secure password management system that handles the memorization for you.

Require Remote Employees to Use a VPN

VoIP is one of the best phone solutions for remote employees. However, most homes don’t have the same level of Internet security as an office, and it gets even more challenging if your staff chooses to work in coffee shops or other public spaces. 

One way to ensure their information is secure even when working remotely is to require the use of a virtual private network (VPN). These services work by creating an encrypted tunnel for your data to pass through, which prevents hackers from intercepting any of your online activity. A VPN will not only make your VoIP more secure, but it will also protect any other information that is passed through the Internet. 

Only Work With a Reputable Service Provider

Security is essential for any business. From payment details to confidential patient information, a breach in your system could have a devastating impact on you or your customers. That’s why you should always work with a reputable service provider who prioritizes your safety. 

At America’s Phone Guys, we go above and beyond to deliver the most advanced phone solutions on the market. With over 20 years of experience serving the greater Portland OR area, we know what it takes to create exceptional solutions that will simplify your daily operations and offer complete security. To get started or learn more, give us a call today!