Internet of Things (IoT) Risks Can Include... Printers?

This week we'll go back to the subject of the Internet of Things (IoT), but not to cover security systems or smart fridges this time. An IoT device that is often unfortunately overlooked in security audits is the ever common printer. While most offices have printers, and many have networked printers, wired or wireless, the majority of users simply would not expect hackers to try and attack a printer. But unfortunately, they often do.

According to CSO Online's article on this very subject, 35% of all security breaches in offices were traced back to printers or other similar multi-function devices. That's a significant percentage! So what is it that makes printers such a common target for cyber-criminals?

Essentially the base cause is that few people even consider printers to be a security risk. Most people see printers as relatively simple devices that take what is on the screen and put it onto paper. After all, if a hacker did manage to break in to it, all they could do is print their own documents, right?

The truth however is that printers are indeed computers, albeit specialized computers. While their main function is to print, they also store data of what they have printed, and have to communicate with other computers on the network, such as any computer that wants to print to it. This means hackers that break in to a printer can also communicate with those computers, and could even steal any documents that was previously printed on that device.

Further problems arise as printers are often not kept updated, or even no longer supported by their manufacturers. Updates on printers and other devices are designed not only to improve the product with new features, but more commonly to patch vulnerabilities in the software. But oftentimes, such as with printers, users are unaware of updates to their devices and do not install them. Other times, the printer is just very old, and no longer supported by the manufacturer with updates.

These factors add up to make printers a very convenient target for hackers. Since they provide a suitable platform to attack further into the network, are often easier to hack because of infrequent updates, and are regularly overlooked as a potential entryway, printers make an easy access point for many cyber-criminals.

The article does offer thoughts on printer defense, but mostly recommends upgrading. Newer printers often include more security features than older ones, some models even include encryption as an option. This however can be expensive and impractical in some cases.

To start securing your printers, look and see if they are still supported by their manufacturers with updates. Updating will often patch the most severe vulnerabilities, and could make a difference in securing the printer.


If you need further assistance, you can always contact Astria. We work with businesses to provide comprehensive security, and can also assess your network for vulnerabilities from things like printers and IoT devices. For more information on our services, visit our website at AstriaBiz.com