We report this week on a little-known way for hackers to get into your system: Through your printer. Who would have even thought this could be a problem?

It could be an issue if your printer holds information from your databases and does not erase the data that has been printed. It's just one area that you probably overlooked in your quest to bring cybersecurity to your systems. That also makes it one more headache for you to check out and resolve if there is the potential for problems with a printer connected to a network.

Like any other network-connected device, it can be at risk for unauthorized access and data breaches. If these systems are not secured, attackers can make printers inaccessible, steal documents and turn the devices into remote-controlled bots for future attacks.

The protective measures that can be taken include system hardening and patch management, according to security experts. This printer vulnerability underscores that nothing can be taken for granted as you work to make your systems impenetrable. The IEEE, the nonprofit professional association for the advancement of technology, in August released new standards for networked printer security that calls for the next generation of printers to include minimum security standards with passwords, encryption and electronic shredding among them.

The IEEE standard applies to hard copy devices including fax machines and other shared devices with on-board memory, hard disks, and computer controls that can be exploited. The standard will have an impact on manufacturers of such devices, but eventually will make it easier for CIOs and IT professionals to deal with the issue. 

In the meantime, check out your printers and make sure they are not the conduit for secure information leaving the premises. - Judi