When considering cybersecurity, most businesses focus on securing their computers, servers, and networks. However, one critical area often overlooked is the security of network-connected multifunction printers (MFPs). These devices, which handle everything from printing and scanning to copying and faxing, are integral to daily operations but can also pose significant security risks if not properly secured.
Why MFPs Are a Target for Cyber Attacks
Modern multifunction printers are no longer just simple machines—they’re complex devices with their own operating systems, storage, and network connections. This connectivity makes them vulnerable to the same cyber threats that target other networked devices, such as:
- Unauthorized Access: Hackers can exploit vulnerabilities in MFPs to gain unauthorized access to your network, allowing them to steal sensitive information or install malware.
- Data Breaches: Documents sent to MFPs often contain confidential information. If an MFP’s data storage or transmission isn’t secure, this information could be intercepted or accessed by unauthorized users.
- Network Entry Points: An unsecured MFP can serve as a backdoor into your organization’s broader network, providing cybercriminals with an entry point to launch more extensive attacks.
Steps to Secure Your Multifunction Printers
Addressing the security risks associated with MFPs requires a proactive approach. Here are some key strategies to help secure your devices:
- Regular Firmware Updates: Like any other device, MFPs need regular updates to fix security vulnerabilities. Ensure your printers are running the latest firmware to protect against known threats.
- Secure Print Release: Implement secure print release features, which require users to authenticate themselves at the printer before documents are printed. This prevents sensitive information from being left unattended in printer trays.
- Encryption: Use encryption for both stored data and data in transit to protect sensitive information from being intercepted or accessed by unauthorized users.
- Access Controls: Limit who can access your MFPs and what they can do with them. Set up user authentication and permissions to ensure that only authorized personnel can use specific functions or access certain documents.
The Importance of Ongoing Monitoring
Even with these security measures in place, ongoing monitoring and management are crucial. Regular audits of your MFPs’ security settings and activity can help detect any suspicious behavior or vulnerabilities that need to be addressed. Partnering with a Managed Print Services (MPS) provider can simplify this process, ensuring your MFPs remain secure as part of a broader cybersecurity strategy.
Conclusion
Network-connected multifunction printers are essential tools in today’s business environment, but their connectivity also makes them potential security risks. By taking proactive steps to secure your MFPs, you can protect your sensitive information and strengthen your organization’s overall cybersecurity posture.
Contact us today to learn more about how we can help secure your multifunction printers and safeguard your business.