Printing may seem harmless, but in today’s data-driven world, even your office printer can become a weak link in your overall security chain. Surprised? You’re not alone.
From invoices and contracts to employee records, printers handle a lot more sensitive information than you think. And if you’re not paying attention to print security, you could be putting your business—and your clients—at risk.
Let’s explore why secure printing matters and how to protect your company from costly data breaches with managed print services.
1. What Makes Printing a Security Risk?
While most businesses lock their laptops and encrypt their emails, printers are often left wide open. But here’s the catch: your printer is basically a mini-computer.
Common print security pitfalls:
Unsecured Print Jobs: Ever printed something confidential and left it in the tray? Anyone could pick it up.
Network Vulnerabilities: Connected printers can be hacked like any other device, giving cybercriminals access to your entire system.
Hard Drive Exposure: Many printers store data internally. Without proper wiping, retired printers could leak sensitive info.
Printing may not be the first thing that comes to mind during a security audit, but it should be.
2. Real Costs of Ignoring Print Security
A single exposed document can lead to legal trouble, lost trust, or a full-blown PR nightmare. And let’s not forget the fines—data protection regulations don’t mess around.
Potential fallout:
- Identity theft or data leaks
- Non-compliance penalties
- Damaged reputation
- Customer loss
Think of it this way: Would you leave client files out on the sidewalk? No? Then why leave them unguarded on your printer?
3. How to Secure Your Business’s Print Environment
The good news? A few smart steps can go a long way.
Smart security practices:
Secure Print Release: Require PINs or ID badges to retrieve documents from the printer.
Data Encryption: Protect files in transit to and from the printer.
Regular Updates & Monitoring: Treat printers like any other IT asset. Keep firmware updated and monitor usage.
User Authentication & Access Controls: Only authorized users should access certain types of documents.
Work with a partner who gets it—someone who knows that today’s printers aren’t just machines; they’re endpoints in your security strategy.
Worried About Print Security? Let’s Talk.
At Innov8 Digital Solutions, we don’t just deliver printers—we deliver peace of mind. Our managed print solutions help you safeguard data, stay compliant, and print smarter.
We extend our managed print services and Managed IT services to other areas, including Kelowna, Edmonton, Nelson, Victoria, Nanaimo, Courtenay, Calgary, Red Deer, and Sudbury.
Contact us today to learn how we can keep your documents (and your business) out of the wrong hands.