Today, as enterprises utilize printers and copiers extensively, security threats involving these important office tools have increased. One advantage offered by managed print services relates to an improved capability to control printing resources. This goal has assumed greater importance as more companies have connected their printers to LANs, clouds, and other networked services.
Attacks Against Networked Printers And Copiers
Since 2005, the potential has existed for printing equipment to connect directly to networks without the need to transmit data through intermediary computers or USB ports. Some business owners still fail to appreciate the significance of this transformation. Hackers now sometimes launch covert attacks aimed at multi-function office printing equipment. Since the majority of modern business printers and copiers include a memory function, the office printing machine in some cases presents a tempting target for information thieves.
The prospect of losing control over confidential documents through a company copier should concern businesses. It likely accounts in part for the rapid growth of print services managed by experts. This specialized assistance enables enterprises of all sizes to tighten the security of their printing and copying equipment.
Some Steps to Protect Printer Security
Security experts advise business managers to ensure they maintain protective firewalls around printers. Just as a customer uses a corporate firewall to safeguard computers in the office, the firm needs to include office printers and copiers within the coverage parameters. Managers should also instruct employees how to perform encrypted printing when they seek to duplicate confidential materials for online transmission.
Consider implementing another important protective measure, too. Does your office utilize an access control system? It generally makes sense to limit the use of networked printers and copiers to designated, authorized personnel. Require the authentication of these individuals before allowing them to print and send documents. You’ll want to monitor printing so your enterprise receives an alert if someone attempts to print material without authorization to do so.
A Wise Investment
Investing in the management of printing services offers some important additional security benefits. This process seeks to prevent expensive duplication (and waste) of printing resources. In addition to bolstering the capability of the enterprise to protect sensitive information from unauthorized eyes, managed services facilitate more cost-effective printing. Managers appreciate the power to streamline and track print and copier usage on a company-wide basis.
