How to prevent your printer from getting hacked

We are all aware that cybercriminals frequently hack into our phones, tablets and computers.  Hackers are increasingly looking at alternative technologies for which to hack. A simple home printer could be a hacker’s way to ruin your life. 

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Cybercriminals can hack your printer to gain access to the documents that you have printed, whether they are essays or tax forms. 

Here are some of the signs you should look out for that indicate your printer is hacked, and steps to take to avoid this.  Let’s first look at how hackers infect printers with viruses. 

Cybercriminals are able to hack into your printer, and access all documents you’ve created from it. (CyberGuy.com)

How can printers become infected? 

There are several ways that a printer can be infected with a virus. One of the ways is through Infected software It is more common for a printer to become infected when it’s connected via a computer, or WiFi network. 

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A printer can also be infected by a virus through infected printouts. It means that, if you print an infected document or image from your computer to the printer, it can spread that virus. This is particularly true if the email you received contains an infected link or attachment that was opened on a computer attached to the printer. 

A printer can also be infected by a virus through an Infected USB drives Plugging a USB device into a printer can spread the virus. When you connect an infected USB device to your printer, it can spread the virus. 

The chances of a device like a smartphone or computer getting a virus are relatively low. 

How can I tell if my printer is hacked or not? 

Your printer will likely start doing 3 things without your permission if you suspect that it’s been compromised by hackers. 

It starts printing random characters or blank pages. 

Printing documents you didn’t initiate 

You know that you did not make the settings, but your printer has changed them. 

Most printers sold today can be connected to WiFi. Cybercriminals with malicious intent could therefore infiltrate a WiFi network to gain access to all devices connected, including printers. It could be that sensitive information is compromised or stolen. 

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A cybercriminal could possibly infiltrate a WiFi network with malicious intentions and gain access any devices that are connected to it. (CyberGuy.com)

Once the data has been retrieved from the printer, the attacker can launch ransomware attacks or send threatening messages via the printer. 

How can I protect my printer against being hacked? 

Some of the steps to protect your printer will depend on what model you have. Be sure to keep your printer clean. Please read the instructions for your printer model. Check to see if there are any security features highlighted. 

Make sure you have the latest version of your software 

In the printer settings, you should be able check for updates and patches that are needed for the printer’s software and firmware. If your printer has security features such as user authentication, encryption, or access control, you should enable them. 

Change your default password 

To protect your printer and sensitive data it may hold, like print jobs or credentials for a network, I recommend changing the default password as soon as possible to something strong and unique. Refer to your printer’s user manual or manufacturer website to find out if it has a default security password. 

Make sure that your WiFi is secure 

Use a unique, strong password for your WiFI. You should Avoid using public WiFi networks You can also find out more about the following: Be sure to use a VPN-enabled router that is secure Connect to your printer via a Wi-Fi network.  Check out my recommendations for the best routers. CyberGuy.com/SecureRouters . 

More: How To Check If Someone Is Stealing Your WI-FI And What to Do About It 

Disable features that are not being used 

You may not need or use certain features, like faxing and remote printing. These features can be disabled to reduce the surface area of your printer, reducing the chances of it being compromised. 

Install antivirus software 

Installing antivirus software protects you from clicking on malicious links, which would install malware. It will also remove any malware that is already present from your device.  

See my expert review of the best antivirus protection for your Windows, Mac, Android & iOS devices by visiting CyberGuy.com/LockUpYourTech . 

Related: Should you use free antivirus? 

Installing an antivirus program will help you avoid accidentally clicking malicious links and install malware on your device, as well as remove existing malware.   (CyberGuy.com)

Install a firewall on your printer and WiFi 

Installing firewalls can help to protect your printers from unauthorised access. It is possible that a firewall will try to stop you from printing when it first installs for your WiFi. There are ways to configure the firewall’s settings so that it doesn’t block communication. This depends on which server you’re using. Installing a firewall is easy. 

Check your An Ethernet cable is used to connect the router and modem  

Search for your The router’s control panel This will depend on the model of your router, so consult the owner’s guide or enter the public IP address in the address bar. 

Look for an entry with the label ” Firewall, SPI Firewall. or something similar 

Follow these steps to enable your firewall Based on your router model 

It is likely that your router will not work. How to install the latest firewall settings 

Note that specific steps can vary depending on router manufacturer and model. It’s also worth noting that some routers have a built-in firewall installed and enabled by default. Check your router’s configuration before you install a new firewall. 

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