When most small business owners think about cybersecurity, they focus on phishing emails, weak passwords, or malware. But what if we told you that your office printer—yes, the quiet machine in the corner—could be one of the biggest security risks on your network?
It might sound unlikely, but cybercriminals love printers—and most businesses don’t realize how vulnerable these devices are until it’s too late.
Why Hackers Target Office Printers
A 2020 experiment by Cybernews demonstrated how dangerous unsecured printers can be. Of 50,000 devices tested, hackers successfully compromised 56%—that’s nearly 28,000 printers breached remotely, all because businesses failed to secure them.
Here’s why printers are a prime target for cybercriminals:
- Printers Store Sensitive Data
Modern printers often have built-in storage. Every time someone scans, copies, or prints a document, a digital version may be stored on the device. That means payroll records, contracts, employee files, and client information can all be at risk.
- Default Passwords Make Hacking Easy
Most printers ship with default admin credentials like “admin/admin” or “123456.” If those aren’t changed, hackers can access the printer’s control panel with minimal effort.
- Printers Are Gateways Into Your Network
Because they’re connected to your Wi-Fi and internal systems, a compromised printer can serve as a launchpad for malware, ransomware, or data theft across your entire business network.
- Unsecured Print Jobs Can Be Intercepted
If print data isn’t encrypted, hackers can intercept documents in transit—before they even reach the printer. That includes legal documents, financial reports, and customer data.
- Hackers Can Remotely Access Scanned Files
With scan-to-email and storage features, a hacked printer can be used to steal scanned documents or spy on your internal communications.
- Outdated Firmware Creates Security Gaps
Printers, like any device, require regular security updates. Without firmware patches, they remain vulnerable to known exploits.
- Old Printers Can Leak Data
Improperly disposed printers often still contain stored data. If that data isn’t securely erased, cybercriminals can mine discarded devices for valuable information—exposing your business to data breaches and potential legal consequences.
How to Secure Your Office Printers From Hackers
The good news? These risks are manageable if you take the right steps. Here's how to protect your business:
- Change Default Login Credentials
The first step is simple—change the default username and password on every printer. Use strong, unique credentials just like you would for online banking or email.
- Update Printer Firmware Regularly
Manufacturers frequently release security patches. Log into your printer’s settings to check for updates, or have your IT provider manage it for you.
- Enable Secure Printing and Encryption
Use Secure Print features and end-to-end encryption to ensure that sensitive print jobs aren’t intercepted in transit.
- Control Access to Printing
Set user permissions so that only authorized employees can send print jobs. For sensitive files, use PIN codes or authentication tools. Consider offering a secure guest mode if needed.
- Wipe Stored Data and Secure Hard Drives
Regularly clear stored data on the device. If your printer has a hard drive, make sure it’s encrypted. Before recycling or disposing of any printer, wipe or destroy the drive.
- Place Printers Behind a Firewall
Like your computers, your printers should be protected by network-level firewalls to prevent unauthorized access.
- Monitor Printer Logs for Suspicious Activity
Review print logs and usage reports regularly. Unexpected access attempts or unusual print activity may signal a security issue.
Office Printer Security Is Critical for Small Business IT Health
For many small businesses, printer security is an afterthought. But cybercriminals know these devices are often ignored—and that makes them an ideal entry point into your network.
If you’re investing in antivirus software and email security but leaving your printers wide open, your cybersecurity strategy has a serious blind spot.
Get a FREE Network Security Assessment
Not sure if your printers are secure? We can help.
At Information Management Systems, we help small businesses in Fargo and throughout North Dakota lock down every part of their network—including the overlooked ones. Our free assessment checks for vulnerabilities across your systems and gives you a clear action plan to improve protection.
Schedule your FREE Network Security Assessment today and make sure your office printers aren’t putting your business at risk.
👉 Click here to schedule or call us at (701) 364-2718.
