Is Your Printer Cyber Secure?

Published on 31 December 2023

Printers have been around since the late 60s, back then you would have to plug your device into the device to be able to print. Nowadays all you need is a shared network. As convenient as this is, it comes with cyber security risks. Statistics by HP indicate that less than 2% of business printers are currently secure. Moreover, the likelihood of a printer being the source of an external threat or breach has increased by 68% since 2016. 

In August 2020 CyberNews ran an experiment to raise awareness of the vulnerability’s printers pose to cyber and data security. They successfully hacked 28,000 printers, displaying how much printers are overlooked when it comes to cybersecurity.

What makes your printer so vulnerable?

A printer has an internal disk drive, which stores any information about previously printed documents, photocopies, or scans. This means that without proper cyber security and vigilance you leave your data available for cybercriminals to access and use. Like with your other devices, a printer’s software needs to be updated regularly to ensure it is equipped with the most up-to-date software and security features. Unfortunately, printers (especially home printers) are often overlooked. As a result, hackers will opt to target these instead of other more secure devices. 

Are wireless printers secure?

One major concern regarding wireless printers revolves around their connection to your networks. When your printer is linked to other network devices, hackers who infiltrate your printer can potentially access other devices connected to the same network, such as your computer or phone. This scenario poses a significant risk, as hackers can exploit vulnerabilities in these devices to access sensitive data and information. This vulnerability is particularly worrisome for devices categorised under the Internet of Things (IoT). To mitigate this risk, it is advisable to prevent your printer from being discoverable to other devices on the same network and security breaches.

How do you secure a wireless printer?

There are two important ways to secure printers against cyber-attacks. With the convenience of wireless printing, ensuring the security of your printer becomes crucial. 

Update your printers

• Manufacturers develop updates in order to reinforce their printing software and security. By not updating your printer software when updates or patches are available leaves your printer open to cyber breaches.

Wi-Fi Direct

• Like Bluetooth, Wi-Fi Direct creates a direct connection from device to device creating its own network, which can be a security risk. Check if your printer has this option available and disable this.

Strong Passwords are Essential

• This applies to both your Wi-Fi network password and the printer’s administrative password. Avoid using generic passwords or default settings. Use a strong, unique password for each and enable two-factor authentication if available.

Disable Unused Services

• Many printers offer features like remote management or web services. If you don’t use these functionalities, disable them to eliminate potential attack vectors.

Physical Security Matters

• Last, but not the least, Keep your printer in a secure location with limited physical access. This helps prevent unauthorised individuals from tampering with the device or stealing printed documents.

Why It’s Important to Secure Your Printer

With everyone focused on cyber security and being cyber safe from a business perspective, we will often focus on devices like a computer or mobile phone. It is very easy to overlook the risks and your printer could leave you exposed. If you are concerned about the security of your printer, we can help. Bluebell IT Solutions has over 20 years of experience in cyber security including printer security. Contact us today or call us on 01908 044202 to talk to an expert about your printer’s security.