Usable security for mobile P2P VoIP

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Helsinki University of Technology | Diplomityö
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Date

2009

Major/Subject

Tietokoneverkot

Mcode

T-110

Degree programme

Language

en

Pages

96

Series

Abstract

The use of Voice over IP (VoIP) applications involves a number of security threats and usability issues, leading to possible breaches of privacy. The Host Identity Protocol (HIP) offers a promising solution to secure Von' communication over Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) protocol by encrypting signalling and data traffic, and authenticating calling parties. We are developing a peer-to-peer version of SIP that enables secure VoIP communication even in mobile ad-hoc scenarios when the connection to the Internet servers may not be available. Implemented on an Internet tablet, the small user interface provides additional challenges from the end user point of view. Via user interviews, a questionnaire study and usability testing, we have sought to improve both the usability of managing and understanding the additional security, as well as the overall user experience of the emerging application. This work aims at understanding current VoIP usage patterns as well as users' attitude towards the concept of mobile VoIP. Security and usability in VoIP environments are the main target of this work. We have also tried to shed some light on current security practices as well as on users' attitude towards security and privacy. Further, we have investigated the concept of trust towards computer systems and more particularly towards VolP applications. The work presents the analysis of the methods used as well as the general findings regarding the defined research areas. Observation of usage patterns has led us to conclude about the current situation in the field of usable security. Comparison with similar studies has made us derive useful information about current security practices. These findings and conclusions have worked as a basis for our future thoughts regarding the emerging concept of mobile VoIP.

Description

Supervisor

Gurtov, Andrei

Thesis advisor

Karvonen, Kristiina

Keywords

usability, security, HIP, SIP, VoIP, mobility, privacy, trust, user-centered design, P2P

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