It was once incredibly difficult to transcribe inaudible Dictaphone recordings by hand. However, transcription apps and websites have now made it possible to quickly translate audio into text with the click of a button. Though uploading your information may be convenient, many people worry about whether or not this process is entirely safe for their personal data. This article will explore the potential risks of using online transcription services and what you can do to protect your information.
How Online Transcription Works
When you upload an audio file to be transcribed using transcription software is first run through a speech-to-text algorithm that translates the recording into text. This text is then stored on the transcription service’s server. Once the transcription is complete, you will be able to download it as a text document.
Transcription services use different algorithms to transcribe audio, which can lead to different results. This is why it’s important to listen to the transcription and make edits as needed before you rely on it for important information. Some transcription services also allow you to share the link to your transcription with others so they can listen to it or download it themselves.
Potential Risks of Using an Online Transcription
There are two main potential risks associated with using online transcription services:
1. Security breaches
2. Loss of data
Security Breaches
There have been a few instances where popular transcription services have experienced security breaches. In 2015, for example, one of the most popular transcription services was breached and over 100,000 customer recordings were exposed.
While no customer information was stolen in this particular instance, it’s possible that future breaches could lead to the theft of personal information. If you are concerned about the security of your information, you should only use transcription services that have robust security measures in place.
Loss of Data
Another potential risk associated with using online transcription services is that your data could be lost. This could happen if the transcription service experiences a technical issue or if you accidentally delete your transcription. To protect your information, you should always download and save your transcriptions as soon as they are finished. You should also keep a backup of your audio files in case the transcription is lost.
Are Cyber-threats Possible with Voice Transcription Technology?
Even though face-to-face communication is less popular now, phone interactions are on the rise. It’s an interesting concept; however, cell phones have potential security risks that come with them. Cyber threats are possible when using speech-to-text and voice transcription technology.
When you use these features, your voice is converted into text and stored on a server. A cybercriminal could potentially hack into the server and gain access to this information.
For example, one of the dangers is something called a “man-in-the-middle” attack. This type of attack occurs when the attacker intercepts the communication between two people. The attacker then changes the conversation or pretends to be one of the people in the conversation.
Another type of attack is known as “eavesdropping.” This happens when the attacker records the conversation without the knowledge or consent of the people involved in the conversation.
What You Can Do to Protect Your Information
There are a few things you can do to protect your information when using online transcription services, including:
1. Use a Secure Transcription Service
Only use transcription services that have robust security measures in place. You can check reviews to see what other users have said about the security of a particular service.
2. Download and Save Your Transcriptions
As soon as your transcription is finished, download and save it to your computer. You should also keep a backup of your audio files in case the transcription is lost.
3. Keep Your Audio Files Private
Be careful about who you share your audio files with. Only give access to people you trust and make sure that your files are not publicly accessible.
4. Encrypt Your Audio Files
If you are concerned about the security of your information, you can encrypt your audio files before uploading them to be transcribed. This will make it more difficult for someone to access your information if the transcription service is breached.
5. Read the Terms and Conditions
Before using a transcription service, make sure you read the terms and conditions. This will help you understand what rights you have and what could happen to your information.
Conclusion
While there are some risks associated with using online transcription services, you can minimize these risks by only using services that have robust security measures in place. You should also download and save your transcriptions as soon as they are finished. By taking these precautions, you can ensure that your information is safe.
