- More than half of SMBs say printers are a low priority for their cybersecurity strategy
- Many have reported printer related data loss incidents recently
- Printers should be treated as smart, connected devices
New HP research has claimed that more than half (57%) of SMBs agree that printer security is a low priority in their cyber security strategy, revealing a worrying lack of awareness around a lesser-known but frequently exploited attack vector.
More than half (56%) noted at least one printing-related data loss incident in the past year, highlighting printers as a growing security vulnerability.
But currently, one in two SMBs can’t even see who’s printing what or where documents are being printed, which speaks volumes for broader security visibility.
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HP is concerned about increasing printer attacks
On the cybersecurity front, 45% of companies are unsure whether their print environment meets industry compliance standards, and a lack of employee training can further accentuate the problem. Two out of three knowledge workers assume network printers are safe, and half don’t even consider them a threat.
“A single misdirected scan or uncollected print job can leak payroll data, customer records or contract details, all without any obvious signs that anything is amiss,” wrote HP Office Print Solutions Division president Aurelio Maruggi.
Looking ahead, around two-thirds (69%) of SMBs recognize that they need to improve printer cyber security, not only across cloud vulnerabilities, but also unauthorized access to print queues, misprinting and leaving confidential documents on the printer itself.
By plugging in its own technology, HP says 88% of organizations using smart printers have improved visibility, policy enforcement and compliance support.
HP also highlights the need to transform printers from dumb peripherals to “connected, intelligent endpoints embedded in everyday work.” At this point, they can be treated more like other endpoints.
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