Technical information

MERLIN LEGEND/MAGIX Toll Fraud
Issue 7 June 2001
5-39
Remote Access
Description
The Remote Access feature allows people to use the system by dialing the
number of a line/trunk designated for remote access. The remote user should be
required to dial a barrier code (password) after reaching the system. Beginning
with Release 3.0, the systemwide barrier code length is programmed for a
minimum of 4 digits and a maximum of 11. After gaining access to the system, a
remote user can do any of the following:
 Dial extension numbers directly without going through a system operator.
Remote callers can call inside extensions, data workstations, or calling
groups just as if they were calling from an extension within the system.
 Select a regular or special-purpose outside line (for example, a WATS line)
or a pool or ARS line to make outgoing calls. If the pool is busy, the system
can be programmed to allow the remote user to use Callback to queue a
call for the busy pool.
 Arrange to have calls forwarded, change the forwarding destination, or
cancel forwarding to a telephone inside or outside the system.
**** SECURITY ALERT ****
Security of Your System. As a customer of a new communications system, you
should be aware that telephone toll fraud is an increasing problem. Telephone toll
fraud can occur in many forms, despite the numerous efforts of telephone
companies and telephone equipment manufacturers to control it. Some
individuals use electronic devices to prevent or falsify records of these calls.
Others charge calls to someone else’s number by illegally using lost or stolen
calling cards, billing innocent parties, clipping on to someone else’s line, and
breaking into someone else’s telephone equipment physically or electronically. In
certain instances, unauthorized individuals make connections to the telephone
network through the use of remote access features.
The Remote Access feature of your system, if you choose to use it, permits
off-premises callers to access the system from a remote telephone by using an
800 number or a 7- or 10-digit telephone number. The system returns an
acknowledgment signaling you to key in your barrier code, which is selected and
programmed by the system manager. After the barrier code is accepted, the
system returns a dial tone to you. If restrictions are not in place, you can place any
call normally dialed from a telephone within the system. Such an off-premises
network call is originated at, and will be billed from, the system location.
The Remote Access feature, as designed, helps the customer, through proper
programming, to minimize the ability of unauthorized persons to gain access to
the network. Most commonly, telephone numbers and codes are compromised
when overheard in a public location, through theft of a wallet or purse containing
access information, or through carelessness (writing codes on a piece of paper
and improperly discarding it). Additionally, hackers may use a computer to dial an