Is Your Printer The Biggest Security Threat In Your Office?

When you think about major cybersecurity threats in your workplace, phishing emails, malware, and weak passwords probably come to mind. But did you know that your office printer — the device quietly operating in the corner — could be one of the most overlooked vulnerabilities in your entire network?

It may sound surprising, but cybercriminals actively target printers. Many companies underestimate the security risks these machines pose — often until a breach happens. In 2020, Cybernews conducted their "Printer Hack Experiment." Out of a sample of 50,000 printers, they successfully hacked 56%, causing nearly 28,000 devices to print warnings about printer security. This reveals how easily businesses overlook this seemingly harmless office equipment.

Why Are Printers Such a Target?

Because printers hold a treasure trove of confidential information. They handle everything from payroll and contracts to sensitive client data, yet many organizations leave them vulnerable to attacks.

Here's what risks you face if a hacker gains control of your printer:

● Stored sensitive data is at risk - Every print, scan, or copy job leaves a digital footprint. Many printers include internal hard drives that store years of documents such as payroll, contracts, and employee records. A hacker accessing this data can steal or reprint confidential files without your knowledge.

● Default passwords are an open invitation - Most printers ship with default admin credentials like "admin/admin" or "123456." Many businesses neglect to change these, making it incredibly simple for attackers to seize control.

● Printers provide a gateway into your network - Connected to your WiFi and company network, compromised printers can serve as entry points for malware, ransomware, or data theft from other devices.

● Print jobs can be intercepted - Without encryption, hackers can capture documents in transit, exposing sensitive contracts, legal papers, and medical records.

● Printers can be used to spy on your operations - Many modern devices feature built-in storage and scan-to-email functions. If hacked, attackers can remotely access scanned files, emails, and stored data.

● Outdated firmware leaves vulnerabilities wide open - Like any tech, printers require regular security updates. Unfortunately, many companies neglect firmware updates, leaving devices exposed to known threats.

● Discarded printers can leak data - Improper disposal of printers can leave residual data accessible to cybercriminals. To prevent breaches and legal risks, make sure to wipe or destroy printer storage before disposal.

Essential Steps to Safeguard Your Printers from Cyber Attacks

Now that you understand the risks, take these immediate actions to protect your printers:

1. Change Default Passwords - Replace any factory default login credentials with strong, unique passwords, just as you would for your email or banking accounts.
   
   
2. Keep Firmware Updated - Regularly check for and install manufacturer security patches. Have your IT team manage these updates to ensure your printers are always protected.
   
   
3. Encrypt Your Print Jobs - Activate Secure Print and end-to-end encryption features to prevent hackers from intercepting documents.
   
   
4. Control Printing Access - Implement access controls so only authorized staff can send print jobs. Use PIN codes for sensitive documents and consider guest printing options.
   
   
5. Regularly Clear Stored Data - Delete stored print jobs manually if your printer allows it. Ensure any internal hard drives are encrypted. When replacing printers, always wipe or destroy the hard drive before disposal.
   
   
6. Protect Printers with Firewalls - Just like computers, printers need to be behind a firewall to block unauthorized access.
   
   
7. Monitor Printer Activity - Have your IT team track printer logs closely. Watch for unusual print jobs, remote access attempts, or unauthorized printing of sensitive files as warning signs.

Printers: More Than Just Office Machines — They're Cybersecurity Gateways

Many businesses overlook printer security because they see printers as simple office tools. However, cybercriminals know these devices are often neglected, making them prime targets.

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

Curious if your office printers are truly secure? Start with a FREE 15-Minute Discovery Call — we'll assess vulnerabilities and ensure your printers and entire network are fully protected.

Click here or call us at 714-579-3026 to schedule your FREE 15-Minute Discovery Call today!