The main features of VoIP SEAL are as follows:

(1) Calls arising from spam-generating-software and calls from real individuals are separated by a Turing test. Before connecting the call, VoIP SEAL detects and blocks the unauthorized access based on the communication pattern observed during a call. This enables the detection and blocking of SPIT and prevents the user's phone from ringing unnecessarily.
(2) By adopting a module structure, VoIP SEAL enables rapid response to new kinds of SPIT attacks, without adjusting the system, by adding and updating modules to respond to new and different kinds of SPIT.
(3) The adoption of a module structure also realizes response to a broad range of applications by enabling flexible and easy customization of systems to meet the needs of a variety of hardware, such as SIP servers, SBC, home network equipment and terminal equipment.

NEC carried out a SPIT attack simulation project employing VoIP SEAL to verify the technology's ability to protect against SPIT. This project showed that 99% of SPIT was detected and blocked, preventing users from receiving unwanted and bothersome calls.

In recent years, the spread of low-cost IP phones has advanced significantly in comparison to fixed-line phones as a new method of communication in the next-generation network environment. However, although IP phones offer cost advantages, they also act as an easy platform for generating spam calls. The cost of generating a spam call over the internet is cheaper than in a traditional network by a factor of 1000.

 

As a result, the existing infrastructure for producing spam e-mails (so called "botnets") can easily be modified to also produce spam telephone calls. Today, the number of spam emails is higher than the number of regular emails produced jointly by all of the users in the internet. If unsolicited marketing and spam calls become as frequent as spam email, constantly-ringing VoIP phones may hinder the spread of their use.

VoIP SEAL can protect and defend against SPIT, and is expected to contribute to the realization of a safe and secure NGN. The modular platform provides the flexibility required to defend against smart attackers and spammers, who are continuously enhancing their spamming software and techniques. NEC will continue to develop this technology toward its early commercialization as a VoIP solution.

 

Source: NEC Inc.