When it comes to cybersecurity, most teams focus on endpoints like laptops and mobile devices. But there’s one common piece of equipment that often flies under the radar: the office printer.
Printers aren’t just printers anymore
Modern multifunction printers (MFPs) are networked, data-rich, and powerful—more like computers than simple copiers. That means they can store sensitive information, connect to cloud services, and interact with your network in complex ways.
If left unsecured, they become an easy target.
Key vulnerabilities to watch
Printers can expose your organization through:
- Stored data: Many printers retain print jobs or scanned documents.
- Default credentials: Devices shipped with basic logins are often never updated.
- Open ports: Printers can provide network access points for bad actors.
- Unencrypted traffic: Without encryption, sensitive data is vulnerable during transmission.
How to strengthen your printer security
Securing your printers isn’t optional—it’s essential. That includes:
- Updating firmware regularly
- Requiring authentication at the device
- Encrypting data in transit and at rest
- Monitoring print activity as part of your security audits
If your printers aren’t already included in your security strategy, now’s the time to close that gap.
Need help assessing your print security? Contact us to schedule an evaluation.