Technical information

Small Business Communications Systems
5-60 Issue 7 June 2001
MERLIN Plus Communications
System
This section provides information on protecting the MERLIN Plus
Communications System.
Protecting Remote Line Access (R2 only)
The Remote Line Access feature allows users to call into the MERLIN Plus
Communications System from a remote location (for example, a satellite office, or
while traveling) and use the system to make calls. However, unauthorized
persons might learn the Remote Line Access telephone number and password,
call into the system, and make long distance calls.
The following security measures assist you in managing the Remote Line Access
feature to help prevent unauthorized use.
Security Tips
 Evaluate the necessity for Remote Line Access. If this feature is not vital to
your organization, consider not using it or limiting its use. If you need the
feature, use as many of the security measures presented in this section as
you can.
 Disallow all or selected international calls on remote line access ports.
 Administer trunk pools for Originated Line Screening to avoid
operator-assisted calls from toll-restricted stations.
 Program the Remote Line Access feature to require the caller to enter a
5-digit password before the system will allow the caller access. The
password is comprised of the user’s extension number (first 2 digits) plus 3
unique digits.
 Use the system’s toll restriction capabilities to restrict the long distance
calling ability of Remote Line Access users as much as possible,
consistent with the needs of your business.
 Block out-of-hours calling by turning off DXD and Remote Line Access
features at an extension 10 telephone whenever possible.
 Protect your Remote Line Access telephone number and password. Only
give them to people who need them, and impress upon these people the
need to keep the telephone number and password secret.