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To secure your printer from unauthorized access, follow these printer-security best practices:
Choose the right printer. Older office printers are usually not well-suited to a high speed, open-source corporate network. It’s worth it to step up to a newer, more secure system.
Limit network access. Allow access only from approved networks and devices by using a low-cost hardware firewall to block public Internet access to the printer.
Customize the login. Change the default passwords to the admin controls.
Run updates and patches. Just like computers, printers and multi-function devices need updates and patches. Check for firmware updates on all printer and network devices as part of your regular IT management schedule. Updates can add new or improved security features, patch known security holes, and fix other issues.
Do it now! If your printer's admin panel is not securely configured, attackers can:
• Change the printer’s network address and reroute print jobs
• Perform a Denial of Service (DOS) attack and render the device inoperable
• Use the printer as a platform to attack other systems on the network
An attacker with unauthorized access can also install malware on the printer allowing remote back-door access.
Remember that everything printed, copied, faxed or scanned is stored on the printer hard drive - and make sure that when a printer is de-provisioned or sent offsite for servicing, it is wiped clean of any stored data.
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