
SIP Attack Vectors
A comprehensive analysis of vulnerabilities and attack techniques targeting SIP-based VoIP systems
SIP Attack Vectors Overview
The Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) is vulnerable to a wide range of attacks due to its text-based nature, complex deployment scenarios, and integration with various network components. Understanding these attack vectors is essential for securing VoIP and IMS infrastructures against malicious actors.
This page catalogs the most significant SIP attack vectors, detailing their technical aspects, detection methods, and mitigation strategies. Each attack vector represents a distinct approach to compromising SIP security, from protocol-level manipulation to application-layer exploits.

Attack Surface Components
- SIP Signaling Layer: Vulnerabilities in message handling, routing, and authentication
- SIP Infrastructure: Weaknesses in proxies, registrars, and border elements
- Media Layer: Vulnerabilities in RTP/RTCP streams and media handling
- Integration Points: Weaknesses at SIP-PSTN gateways and other interconnection points
Detailed SIP Attack Vectors
SIP Attack Vector Comparison
Attack Vector | Complexity | Impact | Detection Difficulty | Mitigation Complexity |
---|---|---|---|---|
SIP Registration Hijacking | Medium | High | Medium | Medium |
SIP Denial of Service | Low | High | Low | Medium |
SIP Message Tampering | High | Critical | High | High |
SIP Authentication Attacks | Medium | Critical | Medium | Low |
SIP Attack Vector Relationships

Diagram showing relationships and dependencies between different SIP attack vectors
Next Steps in SIP Security Analysis
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