Closing Printer Security Gaps

Printer security is still a huge issue in the IT arena. The amount of data lost due to lack of printer security is alarming. A survey says that up to 60% of companies in today’s world have fallen prey to printer security breaches despite the advanced technology solutions available. Hence, it is high time to start taking printer security seriously.

The major culprit of printer security is network printers, especially in the retail business. With so many IT threats and attackers waiting to get their hands on your data and information, network printers increase that threat as printers are placed at a central location and controlled by a single network.

Retail businesses are dynamic and have a continuous flow of data and information. The following are three ways in which retailers can ensure printer security and protect their documents and information from potential threats.

User Authentication

Network printers can be protected in many ways – user authentication is one of them. Since they are built to provide high-tech solutions, retailers need to install a hardware system that has user authentication such as fingerprint scanners or ‘pull’ technologies that allow only authorized users to receive the documents. This way, anyone can send the command from their PC, but they can only access the files if their fingerprint matches the fingerprints in the system.

Printer Security System

Retailers need to install security systems directly in the printer so that they don’t need to rely on manual procedures to improve safety. Because of the fluid nature of their workforce, the retail industry can’t depend on manual security as the chances of human errors are higher. For instance, if someone forgets to pick their documents from the tray, they can fall into the wrong hands. An automated security system will take human error out of the equation and help streamline data systematically. This will, in turn, strengthen security.

Encrypt Documents

A printer malware protection system is another way to prevent documents from reaching unauthorized sources. When you use network printers, there is always a threat of malware as attackers can hack the system or redirect your print command to their printers. The best way to deal with malware is to use sophisticated technology that detects malware and encrypts documents. Document encryption ensures that only retailers can access the printer. This is extremely important to deal with cybercrime and ensure printer security .

Use Advanced Technology Printers

The best and most effective way to close the security gap is to choose the right printer for your retail business. Advanced technology allows users and businesses to protect their printers from all sorts of malware and hacking. This is especially for retailers that use remote printers.

You often end up printing important documents with sensitive data and information. Handling the documents the right way will prevent data and security breaches.

We've repaired printers since 1982 and seen all the printer security risks throughout those years. Talk to one of our Printer & Barcode Technology Specialists about protecting your printers today! Call (800) 643-2664 .

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Related Links:
https://www.midcomservicegroup.com/onsite-printer-repair
https://www.midcomservicegroup.com/printer-service-contracts