Generally, organizations do not perceive printing as a security threat, but printing, scanning documents reckless can cause cyber attacks.

FREMONT, CA: Cybersharks are surfing the digital waves searching for outdated printers. As per the numbers, 73 percent CISOs predict a significant security breach within a year, 64 percent IT managers state that their printers might be infected with malware. The annual cost of cybercrime is $7.7 million. IT decision-makers rely on managed print services that offer robust print security solutions. Most importantly, government entities need printer security. Here are a few tips to increase printer security and manage print services. 

1. Knowledge of Print-Related Data

Organizations must know how much they print in a given month and whether those prints are made on desktop printers, which are expensive if not optimized. Organizations must also see if they are using multi-functional devices strategically placed throughout the office. Without adequate information, organizations cannot make informed decisions to reduce print costs. With appropriate information, organizations can implement more efficient and cost-saving solutions down the road.

2. Understanding the Current Environment

Local, state, or federal government agencies can benefit from the security of copiers and printers. Desktop printers have not been identified as a risk for security breaches at many government organizations. However, network-connected desktop printers are prone to hacking. While talking about information security, it is essential to consider desktop printers, which means making them secure from cybercriminals. Organizations must consider introducing HID cards and swipe technology to ensure security for both printing and scanning.

3. Smart and Secure Scanning

In most organizations, employees can copy, scan, and mail a document quickly. Organizations need better identifiers when sending and receiving emails, especially with ransomware and phishing risks. By using scanning, platforms allow users to scan to a personal, secure folder on their network rather than scanning straight to email.   

4. Only Required Printers

Inefficient use of copiers and different pieces of paper lying around can cause specific information security issues. Printers on every single desktop is redundant as more secure print technology has been introduced as more centrally shared multifunctional devices. These changes have allowed organizations to reduce printer fleets in a much more manageable and cost-effective manner.

Generally, print-related tasks constitute 3 percent of an organization’s revenue. Thus, organizations need to keep them safe and secure as it can cause significant security fiascos. 

See also: Top Managed Print Solution Companies