The most powerful tool in your business arsenal is data. And, if you are slow to realize that then you are leaving yourself at risk because hackers and cybercriminals know it and are always trying to access it. They say the best offense is a good defense and that is true when it comes to the security of your business systems and protecting your sensitive data.
One area businesses can overlook is the print environment, which is ripe for the picking for hackers if it is not properly secured. Fortunately, there are measures you can take to secure your print environment and defend your business systems.
Network Security
Printers and copiers are no longer stand-alone devices, they are sophisticated machines integrated with your network and your daily workflows. Ensuring the security of your entire organization begins and end with network security, including all devices, servers, and software.
Password Protection
Want to reduce the chance of unauthorized parties printing on your devices? Implement individual user passwords that must be entered on the printer or copier. This technique also helps eliminate the all-to-common practice of printed documents being left of the printer for prying eyes to see.
Encryption
Print jobs sent over a network are at risk. Encrypting all data sent over the network will limit the risk of unauthorized access and protect the sender and recipient.
Print, Then Delete
Make deleting a print job after it is complete a common practice in your office. Either put rules in place to enforce this or install software that manages this for you. Deleting jobs from the printer once they are printed ensures that no other party can access or copy the document.
Update or Upgrade
It is important to ensure your print devices are up to date—keep your business systems running smoothly by always updating software and security patches so that you are using the most recent version. And, know when it is time to upgrade your printer or copier. Newer devices are faster, more secure, and more energy efficient than dated models. Upgrading to new devices with sophisticated security settings is money well spent.
After reading this list, you should have a better idea of where you stand regarding print environment security. Perhaps you are already practicing these measures, or maybe you need a little help safeguarding your data. Either way, we can help. Contact us today for a no-obligation technology assessment.
