Protect your information
As VoIP calls pass across the internet and through third-party providers and ISPs, there is a risk that your communications could be monitored by any of these parties. This is similar to the risk that an e-mail travelling the same path across the internet could be monitored.
Consequently, unless your call is encrypted by the VoIP service or you are using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) connection, you should be careful conveying sensitive information, such as financial details, in a VoIP call in the same way you would if you were entering sensitive information on a web page or emailing it.
Find out more about protecting your privacy on the internet at www.privacy.gov.au/internet/internet_privacy
Protect your computer
If you send and receive any information via a computer modem, you need to ensure you protect your computer from harmful viruses. You can:
- install anti-virus software and make sure you keep it up to date
- use a firewall
- check email attachments for viruses before you open them
And if something looks suspicious, don’t open it. Find another way to check the information with the person who sent it.
For more information and practical tips, visit the protecting yourself online webpage.
Protect your cash
VoIP is a great tool for talking to other people, but you need be alert for scams and exercise the same caution you would if you were on the telephone or emailing.
Visit the ACMA’s email scams and fraud webpage or the ACCC’s website www.scamwatch.gov.au for more information about avoiding scams.
