A coupler includes an analog port for interfacing with a telephone answering
system
a network port that is adapted for connection to an insecure network. The security
problem associated with eavesdropping over insecure network is overcome by encrypting
the messages that exit through the coupler's network port. In one embodiment, the
coupler and the telephone answering system are distinct hardware elements and the
coupler is connected to the TAD. In another embodiment, a single processor and
associated memory perform the functions of the coupler's controller and of the
telephone answering system, thus forming a single device that has an analog port
for connecting to the public switched telephone network, as well as a port for
connection to the insecure network. In yet another embodiment, the coupler/TAD
combination includes a control port to allow connection to the control port of
an ISDN telephone.
