Is Your Printer The Biggest Security Threat In Your Office?

If you were asked to identify the most significant cybersecurity threats in your office, you might mention phishing emails, malware, or weak passwords. However, what if I told you that your office printer, the one quietly operating in the corner, could be one of the most substantial vulnerabilities within your entire network?

It may seem far-fetched, but hackers have a keen interest in printers. Many businesses are unaware of the security risks these devices pose until it's too late. In 2020, Cybernews conducted what they termed the "Printer Hack Experiment." Out of a sample of 50,000 devices, they successfully compromised 56% of the printers, prompting them to print a notice about printer security. That amounts to nearly 28,000 compromised devices, all because businesses underestimated this seemingly innocuous piece of office equipment.

Why Target Printers?

Printers are treasure troves of sensitive information. They handle everything from payroll documents and contracts to confidential client data. Yet, many businesses leave them vulnerable to attacks.

When a hacker gains access to your printer, several things can happen:

• Printers store sensitive data - Each time you print, scan, or copy a document, your printer retains a digital copy. Many printers have internal hard drives that can store years' worth of documents, including payroll files, contracts, and employee records. If a hacker accesses this data, they can steal or even reprint those files without your knowledge.
• Default passwords are a hacker's dream - Most printers come with default admin logins like "admin/admin" or "123456." Many businesses fail to change these, making it exceedingly easy for cybercriminals to take control.
• They're an open door to your network - Printers connect to your WiFi and company network. If compromised, they can serve as an entry point for malware, ransomware, or data theft from other devices.
• Print jobs can be intercepted - If your print jobs lack encryption, hackers can capture documents before they reach the printer, exposing confidential contracts, legal documents, and medical records.
• They can spy on your business - Many modern printers feature built-in storage and scan-to-email capabilities. If a hacker compromises your device, they can remotely access scanned documents, emails, and stored files.
• Outdated firmware leaves the door wide open - Like any device, printers require security updates. However, most businesses neglect to update their printers' firmware, leaving them susceptible to known vulnerabilities.
• Data mining from discarded printers - Improperly disposed printers can be a goldmine for cybercriminals. Residual data on discarded devices can be exploited for sensitive information, leading to potential security breaches. It is crucial to wipe the storage clean before disposal to avoid vulnerabilities and legal issues.

How To Protect Your Printers From Hackers

Now that you understand the risks associated with printers, here are immediate steps you should take:

• Change The Default Password - If your printer still uses the default login credentials, change them without delay. Opt for a strong, unique password similar to what you would use for your email or bank account.
• Update Your Printer's Firmware - Manufacturers provide security patches for a reason. Log into your printer settings to check for updates or have your IT team handle this task.
• Encrypt Print Jobs - Activate Secure Print and end-to-end encryption to prevent hackers from intercepting print jobs.
• Restrict Who Can Print - Implement access controls to ensure only authorized employees can send print jobs. If your printer supports PIN codes, require them for sensitive print jobs, and consider adding a guest option.
• Regularly Clear Stored Data - Some printers allow manual deletion of stored print jobs. If your printer has a hard drive, ensure it's encrypted, and remember to wipe or destroy the hard drive before disposing of a printer.
• Put Your Printer Behind A Firewall - Just like computers, printers should be safeguarded by a firewall to prevent unauthorized access.
• Monitor Printer Activity - If your IT team isn't already monitoring printer logs, now is the time to start. Look for unusual print activity, remote access attempts, or unauthorized users printing sensitive documents as potential red flags.

Printers Aren't Just Office Equipment - They're Security Risks

Many businesses underestimate printer security because they see printers as mere office equipment. However, cybercriminals recognize that these devices are often overlooked, making them easy targets.

If you're securing your computers while ignoring your printers, you're leaving a significant gap in your cybersecurity defenses.

Want to know if your office printers are secure? Start with a FREE Consult - we'll check for vulnerabilities and make sure your printers (and your entire network) aren't leaving your business exposed.

Click here or give us a call at 952-941-7333 to schedule your FREE Consult today!