Print Environment Security MUST Be Part of Your Cybersecurity Strategy

With the ongoing occurrences of cybercrimes and the various news cycle that follows them, businesses are aware of the threats out there .  While many businesses have security in place for their computers, networks and servers, they often overlook a growing threat to their information technology environment - print environment security.   A recent survey  indicated that approximately 60 percent of the businesses interviewed had experienced a security breach involving their printers.  Hackers and cybercriminals are aware that printers pose a number of vulnerabilities to a business, which is why printers have become a popular target for cyberattacks.

There are several security risks that your printer creates for your business including:

• Unencrypted data on your printer's hard drive
• Mobile printing
• Documents left abandoned in the printer output tray
• Unauthorized access of the printer by not having user authentication
• Unsecured cloud connectivity

According to an IDC study, companies who implemented a printer security program experienced six times as few incidents as those who had no program in place.  There are steps you can take to ensure your print environment is secure and safe from cybercrime.

1. Secure the Printer.  The major upside to newer model printers is that they have layers of embedded security features that protect your printer from being compromised - from start up to shut down.  Your IT department or Managed IT partner can ensure that your printers are compliant with all of the internationally recognized security standards and that all updates are code signed to confirm authenticity.
2. Secure your Data.  Your business data needs to be protected at all times.  The latest models of printers feature a variety of encryption features that make the data on its hard drive nearly impossible to decipher if accessed.  It is also of the utmost importance that when you remove a printer from your fleet, you take the time to erase all stored data from the hard drive before disposing of the device.
3. Secure Documents. When employees leave printed documents in the printer's output tray, it poses a serious security threat to your business.  To prevent these sensitive documents from getting into the wrong hands, your organization can implement a pull print program.  This will require users to input an authentication code at the printer to release the document for printing, and it eliminates the risk that documents are left on the printer abandoned.

Fraser is fully equipped to help you create a cohesive cybersecurity policy that takes into account your print environment.  Contact us today to learn how we can help protect your business.