Let me ask you something, doc. When you think about cybersecurity risks, what comes to mind? Phishing emails? Ransomware? Maybe someone using “password123” on your EHR?
I bet your office printer doesn’t make the list.
But here’s the truth: that quiet machine near the front desk — the one scanning ID cards, printing lab summaries, and emailing consult notes — could be one of the most overlooked threats in your entire environment.
A few years back, a cybersecurity team ran an experiment on 50,000 internet-connected printers. They successfully hacked more than half. That’s not a fluke — it’s a warning.
Why Do Hackers Target Printers?
Because printers are information-rich, under-secured, and often invisible in security protocols.
Here’s what we’re seeing:
- Printers store sensitive data. Scans, faxes, print jobs — many devices retain digital copies. That includes insurance forms, test results, even HR files.
- Default passwords are still everywhere. “Admin/admin” or “123456” shouldn’t protect anything — but they still do.
- They’re connected to your network. A compromised printer is a back door into your larger environment.
- Unencrypted print jobs can be intercepted. That outbound referral? It might be landing in the wrong hands.
- Firmware updates often get missed. Without patches, known exploits remain wide open.
- Disposal becomes a liability. If hard drives aren’t wiped, old printers can leak years of confidential data.
In short, this isn’t about printers. It’s about patient safety, practice reputation, and regulatory risk.
So What Can You Do Today?
- Change the default login credentials. Use strong, unique passwords.
- Update your printer’s firmware. Treat it like any other endpoint.
- Enable secure printing and encryption.
- Set access controls. Limit who can print and when.
- Clear stored data regularly. Encrypt hard drives, wipe before disposal.
- Put printers behind a firewall.
- Monitor usage logs. Strange print jobs? Unexpected access? Investigate.
These steps don’t just protect your printer — they protect your patients, your compliance status, and your peace of mind.
You shouldn’t have to worry that a background device is quietly exposing your practice to risk. What would it feel like to know every device in your office — even the quiet ones — had your back?
Let’s find out together.