Is Your Printing Environment Secure?
With the technology evolution, modern printers are increasingly connected to the internet and other devices, making printing possible anywhere and anytime. However, this connectivity also poses security risks, especially when it comes to the use of insecure printing protocols such as LPR and RAW.
LPR (Line Printer Remote) is a printing protocol that was developed in the 1970s and is still widely used in many organizations. It is insecure because it sends print information in plain text over the network without encryption or authentication, making it easy for an attacker to intercept and access this data.
RAW is another insecure printing protocol that provides no encryption or authentication, allowing print data to be transmitted without protection over the network. Most people will recognize the Microsoft’s Standard TCP/IO Port. This uses RAW protocol by default.
When these insecure protocols are used, print information can be easily captured by an attacker using tools such as WireShark, a popular network traffic analysis software. WireShark allows attackers to capture confidential print data being transmitted over the network and then examine it to extract sensitive information such as passwords, credit card numbers, or identity information.
To avoid these security risks, it is important to use secure printing protocols such as IPP (Internet Printing Protocol) over HTTPS or IPPS (Internet Printing Protocol Secure). These protocols encrypt print information as it is transmitted over the network, ensuring that only the intended recipient can access it.
Additionally, modern printers usually offer additional security features such as user authentication and hard disk encryption, which can further protect confidential information.
In conclusion, security in the printing environment is a critical issue that should be considered in all organizations. Using insecure printing protocols such as LPR and RAW can expose print information to security risks. Using secure printing protocols such as IPPS is an effective way to avoid these risks and ensure that confidential print information remains safe and protected.
#cybersecurity #dataprotection #printmanagement
