The Dark Side of Printer Security: How Your Office is Putting Your Business at Risk
While businesses are busy adopting the latest technologies to stay ahead of the competition, many are neglecting a crucial aspect of digital security: printer security. It’s estimated that over 80% of businesses have never updated their printer’s operating system, making them vulnerable to cyber attacks. The consequences are dire: unauthorized access to print data, print job manipulation, and even the use of printers as attack points to launch broader network intrusions.
The Printer Security Nightmare
Modern multifunction printers (MFPs) store significant amounts of sensitive data, making them a prime target for cyber attacks. With MFPs, the risk is multiplied: unauthorised access to print data, print job manipulation, cloud printing vulnerabilities, and the potential use of printers as attack points to launch broader network intrusions. And yet, many businesses are unaware of these risks or are taking inadequate measures to protect themselves.
The Kyocera Solution: A Wolf in Sheep’s Clothing?
Kyocera Document Solutions South Africa claims to be a leader in printer security, offering advanced security features and tailored solutions to businesses. But at what cost? Their products come with a hefty price tag, and critics argue that their security measures are overly complex and difficult to implement. Moreover, Kyocera’s emphasis on their "personalised approach" has raised eyebrows, with some claiming that it’s just a marketing ploy to get businesses to shell out more money.
The Future of Cyber Security: A Recipe for Disaster
Gartner’s report on cyber security predictions for 2023-2024 is painting a bleak picture: the increasing reliance on cloud computing, the proliferation of IoT devices, and the growing threat of generative AI all pose significant risks to businesses. And yet, many companies are still lagging behind in implementing comprehensive security measures. The consequences of complacency will be severe: data breaches, reputational damage, and even legal consequences.
Conclusion
Printer security is a ticking time bomb, waiting to unleash chaos on unsuspecting businesses. Kyocera’s solutions may offer some level of protection, but are they worth the cost? It’s time for businesses to wake up to the risks and take proactive measures to secure their digital assets. The future of cyber security is uncertain, but one thing is clear: those who fail to adapt will suffer the consequences.
