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

Do you need the best IT Support and Maintenance for your business?

You need the best IT support in London. Technology is complicated and expensive. It’s so hard to maintain everything and know what to do when something breaks or goes wrong. IT problems can put a damper on your day. They’re frustrating, time-consuming, and seem like a never-ending cycle of issues.

Why you should choose Penntech IT Solutions

Customer Satisfaction Levels/NPS Score

Penntech’s average NPS score over 90 days is 84. The average Net Promoter Score (NPS) for IT Managed Service Providers (MSPs) can vary. Still, an NPS of around 50 is considered excellent in this industry, with scores above 70 exceptional and rare.

No lengthy contract tie-ins and a trial period

We offer our services on a trial basis for the first three months because we’re confident in our delivery and approach.

Comprehensive 24/7 IT Support

Penntech offers a wide range of IT services, from strategic project management to 24/7 remote support, ensuring all your IT needs are always covered.

Cybersecurity Expertise

We provide advanced cybersecurity measures and expertise, including penetration testing services and Cyber Essentials, to protect clients from cyber threats.

Scalability

We offer Clients the ability to scale IT services up or down based on their needs. This flexibility is crucial for businesses that experience seasonal changes or rapid growth.

Tech Focus, not Sales Focus

Other providers often enforce their preferred IT stack, but we don’t, as IT is not a one-size-fits-all solution.

Disaster Recovery and Backup Solutions

We ensure our Clients’ business continuity through robust disaster recovery and backup solutions.

Expertise Across Industries

With experience in various verticals and industries, Penntech understands different businesses’ unique IT challenges and can provide customised solutions..

Contact us today or explore the range of support packages on offer.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
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I've known Lewis since working with him at CIFF in 2011.  More recently, he has built-up an excellent business which supports a number of my past and present clients.  He also supports my business.  Lewis is first rate and equally importantly, he has built a good team around him to provide quality, responsive IT support.  I can't recommend Penntech highly enough.
  
 
  
 
 
 
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20 July 2020
 
 
  
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20 July 2020
 
 
  
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29 May 2020
 
 
  
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20 May 2020
 
 
  
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18 May 2020
 
 
  
Heartstyles have worked with Penntech for 3 years. The initial brief to sort out our global IT requirements. Penntech have always been refreshing clear in their comms, avoiding IT gobbledygook. No job has been too small to support and they always deliver above and beyond what was required and within budget. They clearly know what they’re doing and the level of service is always outstanding
  
 
  
 
 
 
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Lewis and the team at Penntech are seen very much as an extension of our business. They are professional, technically brilliant, don't over complicate things, very friendly and the staff feel comfortable dealing with them on a daily basis.  They have a good understanding of our needs and go above and beyond to ensure we can get on with our day to day business, safe in the knowledge that if anything goes wrong technically that Penntech will resolve it efficiently. Leigh Ryan, CIO, MGAM Ltd
  
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
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