03 Mar GDPR – Why print security is crucial
Let’s face it we have all gone up to the printer, seen a document sitting on it, taken a quick peek, asked the rest of the office “whose document is this”?
Don’t overlook the innocuous looking networked printers and multifunction printers (MFP’s) sitting quietly in the corner. They must be included in your wider business security measures. These devices store and process data, and as intelligent devices they have the same security ‘weak spots’ as any other networked endpoint.
Recent Quocirca research revealed that enterprises place a low priority on print security despite over 60% of workers admitting they have experienced a print-related data breach!
If your print infrastructure has slipped down the ‘to do’ list, maybe it is time for a rethink? With the imminent arrival of GDPR and the potential fines of 4% of annual worldwide turnover or 20 Million Euros (whichever is higher) it might be worth ensuring the security gaps have been filled.
Securing the print environment
Security v’s productivity is a challenge within any business. With added security measures in place it brings more stringent processes which employees have to adapt and adhere to. However MFP’s have become smarter and more sophisticated, such document processing on top of print and copy enables capture, routing and storage of information.
Bridging the gaps between digital and hard copy information is central to our core technology at Newman. We work hard to ensure our service, solutions, hardware, software solutions and firmware are seamlessly connected. But how do we ensure the door is closed to outside interference?
- End to end Data Encryption in transmission
- Automatic Overwriting of hard drives
- Encrypted and over written print jobs
- Print release to authorised users via secure access
If you have a mixed fleet of legacy and new devices it is worthwhile taking up a conversation with a reputable vendor to help you fully understand the risks and vulnerabilities of your print set up. It is important to ensure the gaps are plugged and your systems are protected from malicious malware.
No Hacking Zone!
Look into encryption, intelligent tracking on all device usage, to see who is printing what and when to better identify any breach. For secure access to sensitive or valuable information, Implement simple secure authentication, it is easy to configure confirmation of user ID through active directory integration, network or badge log in or even 2 factor authentication.
Ensure your print devices are properly configured, disable any unnecessary features, locking down device interfaces to secure the data held within, and explore the embedded security features that help to ‘Lock down’ your system.
