PBX Fraud

PBX Dial through fraud continues to affect businesses around the world.

22:05 23 August 2017

PBX is a widely used telephone switching system that connects users to Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN), Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) and Session Initiation Trunks (SIP).

 

PBX, or Private Branch Exchanges, can be exploited by fraudsters who can use the telephone system to make calls to premium rate or international numbers. They can do this if the PBX system has incorrectly configured firewalls, poor security settings, or is not properly maintained.

 

Fortunately, there are simple steps that can be taken to significantly reduce the risk of becoming a victim of PBX Dial through fraud. These include:

 

·        Changing default PIN/password as soon as possible

 

·        Using strong PIN/password and making sure that they are changed periodically

 

·        Disabling access to voicemail from outside lines

 

·        Asking your telecoms provider to place a restriction on international calls if you don’t need or hardly use the service

 

·        Asking your network provider to block outbound calls when your business is closed.

 

·        Reviewing call logging and call reporting options

 

·        Consulting an IT telecoms professional to ensure your settings for your PBX systems are secure