Wireless Networks and Printer Security

Many people worry about someone hacking their computers, but they’re not thinking about their wireless network being breached. Wireless printers are a tool that most individuals use sporadically—for example, when they want to print theatre tickets or Amazon returns labels!

Printers tend to be out of sight, out of mind. That is, until you need to print something and run out of ink. Well, they’re not out of the minds of hackers. Unsecured printers are a classic way for criminals to access a wireless network. And your home network could also be your business network if you work from home.

To illustrate this point, Cybernews purposely hacked printers. It hijacked nearly 28,000 unsecured printers globally, with a success rate of 56%. Once it gained access, it made the printers print out a guide on printer security.

How exposed is your wireless network from your printer? We’ve got some security tips below to help. These tips can help you secure your wireless network better and keep data on all devices more secure.

1. Change the Default Login Credentials

When you buy a new printer, it will likely include default information. Manufacturers give you a way to connect and set up your device, usually involving default login information.

Immediately change that information during set up. Hackers use a master list of all these defaults. They plug it into an automated script and keep trying until they get a hit. Change these, and make sure you create a strong password. Also, make sure you password-protect the printer and network for secure network printing.

2. Keep Printer Firmware Updated

Keeping firmware updated is vital to keeping your wireless network secure. Hardware needs updating just like computers, software, and apps do. Those updates often contain critical security patches.

Firmware updates aren’t usually as visible as software updates. Software and OS updates typically give you a popup notification. But updates to the printer drivers and firmware aren’t so visible.

Some of the places you can check for firmware updates are:

• The PC manufacturer’s utility app on a connected device
• The printer’s information panel
• The printer manufacturer’s app installed on a PC

3. Use a Network Firewall

A network firewall is important for monitoring traffic across your wireless network. Firewalls can block suspicious activity to keep hackers out of your network. You should configure the firewall to watch incoming and outgoing printer traffic.

4. Put Your Printer on a Guest Network

Most of today’s home routers allow you to set up a guest network. This is a separate Wi-Fi that runs from the same router you use for your main network. It’s harder for hackers to get from one network to another.

Keeping a less secure device separated from computers and phones improves security. You can still print to your printer from devices on another network. It would be best if you had things configured correctly. If you need help with that, just let us know.

5. Disable Unused Ports or Services

IoT devices, like printers, often have many ways to connect. You may only need some of the ports or services that come with your printer. These ports are risk areas where hackers could find a way in.

Disabling any ports and sharing features you don’t need is best. This reduces the risk of a breach.

6. Unplug It When Not in Use

Most home printers aren’t used as much as work printers. People may only use them once a month or a few times a year. If you’re not using your printer constantly, unplug it when not in use.

Unplugging the device is a surefire way to cut off hackers’ access. When it’s shut down, no access is available.

7. Teach Your Family Cybersecurity Best Practices

Your printer is one device on your network. Most families connect several devices to their home Wi-Fi. In 2022, the average number of connected devices per U.S. household was 22.

Families need to know and adopt good cyber habits. This keeps everyone’s data more secure. It also helps you avoid costly identity theft breaches. Or the takeover of things like baby monitors.

Some standard best practices to follow for good cyber hygiene are:

• Always use strong passwords. (at least 10-12 characters & include a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols)
• Keep software & firmware on devices updated
• Use multi-factor authentication wherever possible
• Enable device firewalls & other protections
• All devices that should have a good antivirus installed
• Never log into an account from a link you receive via email or text
• Learn how to identify phishing & get a second opinion before clicking
• Get a security checkup from a pro at least every year or two

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