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Tip #1. Make Sure Your Printers Are Configured Correctly<\/h3>
Many things can make a printer vulnerable to cyber threats and security breaches. So, you want to get the basics right to ensure the attacks don\u2019t happen to you. <\/p>
To start with, make sure to change the default password on your printer. Since anyone can access a printer remotely, a simple \u201c123456\u201d code won\u2019t suffice. <\/p>
Second, make sure you\u2019re using your own router to print files remotely. Never connect to \u201cGuest\u201d networks.<\/p>
Tip #2. Inspect Print Trays Regularly<\/h3>
This one is a no-brainer, but everyone could use it as a reminder. Make sure to check your print trays and get rid of unused pages carrying sensitive information. There\u2019s no easier way to prevent data leaks than this. <\/p>
Alternatively, you can get a shredder for your office and shred the papers you don\u2019t want anyone to see.<\/p>
Tip #3. Install Malware and Firmware Updates<\/h3>
Invest time and effort to ensure that your malware and firmware protection are up to date and can handle all types of hacks. <\/p>
The good news is that many printers come with pre-built malware protection. <\/p>
HP, for example, installs the HP \u201cSureStart\u201d software in their printers that monitors approaching targets when the printer is on. The software can shut down the device if an attack comes its way. This is a great way to prevent attacks from spreading further within the network. <\/p>
Tip #4. Limit Access to the Network<\/h3>
Unprotected printers in a network are an extremely easy target for cybercriminals. Sure, businesses and offices require printers to access networks to perform remote prints. But if you can do the job by disabling the network access, make sure you do that. <\/p>
If not, tweak the printer and network settings to only allow the device to take print jobs from the network you trust. This will help avoid outside interference and security breaches. <\/p>
Tip #5. Update Your Printers<\/h3>
Updating a printer is equally as important as updating your phone to the latest software. Much in the way iOS developers look for bugs and fix them in a new update, printer manufacturers work toward known device vulnerabilities and update the software for added protection. <\/p>
Look for printer updates so you can easily overcome known threats to the printer. Ideally, update your printers every quarter to get the most out of the security benefits. <\/p>
Tip #6. Install a Firewall<\/h3>
If you run an office, chances are you already have a firewall. But in case you missed this requirement, now\u2019s the time to do it. <\/p>
Using a reliable firewall helps keep printers safe from cybercriminals. <\/p>
Your computers most likely come with pre-built firewalls, and all you need to do is keep them enabled. But there are also specialized firewalls for homes and offices that offer advanced security and make it virtually impossible for anyone to break in. <\/p>
Tip #7. Encrypt Your Storage<\/h3>
Printers with shared networks can perform distance printing. And when a print job is in transit and travels from a computer to a printer, hackers can intercept the data and exploit it. <\/p>
To keep this from happening, encrypt your print jobs. Also, make sure the sensitive data on your printer’s hard or internal drive is encrypted as well.<\/p>
Keep in mind that when you print a document, that file is often stored as an image within the printer and makes it an easy target for hackers. It\u2019s why you should use an encryption tool to protect your data. Luckily, many modern printers have this tool pre-built. <\/p>
You can use the tool to set up a secure password that allows printer storage encryption, remove user IDs and ex-employee access, delete documents from the print queue once they\u2019re printed, and much more.<\/p>
Tip #8. Educate Your Employees<\/h3>
If you work in an office, chances are you aren\u2019t the only person using the printer. Everyone that has access to it needs to be aware of the responsibilities that come with its usage. Make sure to talk to your employees about ways to ensure both the physical and virtual safety of the printers. <\/p>
Your staff should also be careful when using their mobile devices to print, as smartphones are easier to hack. Explain to them what phishing scams are and how they can avoid being the victim. <\/p>
Finally, make sure it\u2019s clear to them how they can use confidential information in your company.<\/p>
It\u2019s Time to Ensure Printer Security<\/h2>
Printers are the most overlooked devices when it comes to security. Given how most business owners consider them as merely internal devices whose sole function is to print documents, it\u2019s no wonder they are a weak spot security-wise. <\/p>
Whether you use printers in your office or at home, take a moment to see how you can enhance its security before your next printing job.<\/p>
As cybercriminals are a growing concern, each of us is responsible for protecting our data. Luckily, the tips from this article will help you bring your printer\u2019s security to another level. <\/p>
If you need more insight into protecting the security of your printers, get in touch with us today. We can set up a 10-15-minute chat to discuss how you can implement these changes and keep cybercriminals away. <\/p>
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