Tuesday Tips: Make Sure Your Printer Isn’t Your Security Weak Link

Document security is a top priority and you likely have protocols in place for your computers, mobile devices and similar items. However, you also have to look at the laser printers in the office since these can play an integral role in data security.

Exploring the Risks

Today’s multifunction printers are high-tech and have a wealth of features. This means that they are also connected to your network to ensure that they are enhancing office efficiency. Because of this, a hacker could gain access to your printer which could lead them to sensitive business information.

Ways to Secure Your Printer

Start the process by looking for areas of vulnerability so that you know where to put your focus. There are several steps you can take to make sure that the printer in your office is as secure as the rest of your network, including:

• Monitor printer use
• Secure the location
• Protect the hard drive
• Authenticate the users of the device
• Be cautious when using wireless
• Ensure that data transmitted over the network and to the printer is secure
• Never leave documents in the printer

A big part of document security is making sure that your office printer is adequately secured. Use this information to go about enhancing total data security in your company.