Cybersecurity is nothing new, but with hackers getting smarter by the day, it's a constant battle to keep up. To make matters worse, your own multifunction printer could be working against you. Here's what to know (and how to fix it).
Multifunction Printer Security
Although multifunction printers are designed to be as smart and secure as possible, there's no denying that digital criminals are clever, determined, and armed with workarounds you may never have heard of. That means it's up to you to constantly and consistently protect your multifunction printer.
But how can you do that if you don't know where the machine's vulnerabilities exist in the first place?
Here are a few ways your MFP might be undermining your efforts--and how to stop it:
Hard Drives
Hard drives as a treasure trove of data, and if hackers gain access to your multifunction printer, they'll look here first. Don't just hand over your company's most sensitive information. Instead, get into the habit of regularly (and frequently) wiping your MFP's hard drive.
Transmitted Data
When you send a document from a mobile device or PC to your multifunction printer, there's a span of time where that data is traveling--and potentially vulnerable. Encryption helps protect information while it's on the move; even if a digital criminal intercepts your print, they won't be able to read or use it.
Network Connections
Can anyone, anywhere connect to your multifunction printer? Do you have tools in place to monitor network activity or restrict access for certain users? It's important to be aware of these elements, because most of today's MFPs use networks 24/7--which means they could be exposed to risk 24/7, too.
Conclusion
Multifunction printer security may seem complicated, but it doesn't have to be. The most important way to protect your MFP is to understand how a hacker sees it and leverage that perspective to protect yourself, your data, and your company.
Need help with multifunction printer security? Want to upgrade to a more secure MFP? Contact us today!