How to protect your print devices from cyberattacks
By Lawrence Breen
In the wake of the Optus data breach, companies of all sizes are reviewing their cybersecurity. And rightly so. Protecting your data and that of your clients should be top of mind in today’s digital world.
But the humble printer is one device that is often overlooked.
It’s just a box that sits in your office and churns out documents, right? Actually, modern printers are complex, internet-connected devices that talk to your network, making them vulnerable to cyberattacks.
Your printers can provide an access point for malicious activities, allowing cybercriminals to launch an attack on the other devices on your network. In many cases, your printer may present hackers with a more accessible gateway than any other device on your network, making it critical to have the proper protections in place.
If you are serious about cybersecurity, there are a few steps you can take to protect your devices.
1. Audit your current set-up and look for vulnerabilities
The first step to improving your security is to understand the current set-up. Some devices will be more vulnerable, potentially putting you at unnecessary risk. These should be quickly identified and removed from the network.
2. Review settings and ensure you are following best practice
A thorough review should include the following:
- Ensuring printer firewalls and encryption settings are turned on and appropriately configured for your network
- Checking that antivirus software on connected devices is switched on and up to date
- Making sure access passwords are strong, at least 16 characters in length, and kept to the small group of administrators who need them for troubleshooting purposes
- Checking for firmware and software updates for your devices and making sure these are completed as often as required. Out-of-date firmware or software can increase vulnerabilities.
- Considering when internet-connected print devices can be switched off. For example, if the office shuts down for an extended period at Christmas, make switching these off part of the protocols.
3. Work with an experienced technology expert
At Inland Digital, we stay across emerging threats and best-practice security for your managed print devices so you don’t have to. Network-connected printers and scanners are a critical part of your set-up to keep your team productive, and you shouldn’t have to worry about security.
We can even help you with an audit of your current set-up, providing you with insights and a plan to optimise your fleet.
Inland Digital customers are covered with best-in-breed security and built-in detection tools that shut down hardware at the first sign of threat, rebooting with a new IP address to keep you protected and doing business as usual – no downtime.
Interested in better security for your managed devices? Talk to Inland Digital today.