A modern office needs a printer that can handle a high volume and number of tasks with professional-looking output. The right multifunction printer (MFP) is proven to boost productivity and make better workflows.  It would be highly impractical to have a high quality, multi-function printer for every worker, both because of the price and because of limited space, so there is usually either one printer for a smaller office or a limited number of printers for larger offices. Unfortunately, there are some security risks when printing functions are done over a network used by different people in the same company.

Remote access: Because the individuals in the workforce need to be able to use the printer from other parts of the office and even remote locations, it is necessary to restrict remote access so that only authorized users will be able to access the MFP's capabilities. Otherwise, someone could access someone else's documents or otherwise manipulate the print jobs. Outside users who gain access could also do more severe damage, such as attacking other applications or executing a malicious code that infects the entire network. 

Document storage must be secured so that unauthorized users will not be able to access confidential documents that are stored on the printer. Documents are often deliberately stored until needed or picked up. Even when disposing of an old printer, it is essential to remember that it may contain sensitive information that needs to be permanently erased.

Encrypting data transmissions will ensure that even if the data is intercepted, the one attempting to steal the data will not be able to use any of it. IPPS (Internet Printing Protocol over SSL) secures the data at each endpoint.

Administrative security is another critical issue. It is important to change and maintain passwords and to ensure that only those who should have access to some functions are allowed access to those particular areas.

There are several levels of security, from the person walking over to the printer and picking up someone else's documents to someone remotely accessing the functions to try to disrupt the system. Knowing the different levels of security is vital to protecting your data. Print security can help to protect your information. At EBP, we offer both hardware and software solutions to protect your confidential information at every level.