How to protect your printer from being hacked

We are all aware that cybercriminals frequently hack into our phones, computers, and tablets.  Did you know hackers are increasingly searching for new technologies to hack into? A simple home printer could be the key to a hacker ruining your life. 

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A cybercriminal could hack into your printer, and access all documents you’ve created from it. 

Here are some warning signs that your printer may have been compromised and how you can prevent it.  Let’s first look at how hackers infect printers with viruses. 

A cybercriminal could hack into your printer, and access all documents that were printed there. (CyberGuy.com)

How do printers acquire viruses? 

There are several ways that a printer can be infected with a virus. One way to get a virus is through Infected software Installing infected software on a computer through WiFi or another printer connection is a common way to cause a virus. 

More: Best printers for 2023  

The printer may also get infected through another source. infected printouts. If you print a document, or an image which was infected by a virus at the time of its creation, this virus could spread to your printer. This is especially true if an email contains an infected link or attachment that you open on a computer attached to your printer. 

The last way a printer could get infected is by an Infected USB drives If you plug in an infected USB drive to your printer, the virus can easily spread. Plugging in an infected USB to your printer can spread the virus. 

However, it is important to know that the chances for a printer to get a virus is low compared to other devices such as a computer or smartphone. 

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 prints blank pages, or random characters all at once 

You are printing documents that you didn’t initiate 

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

The majority of printers on the market today are designed to connect to the internet via WiFi. A cybercriminal could infiltrate a WiFi network with malicious intent and gain access to all devices connected to it. This includes your printer. This could result in sensitive information being stolen or compromised. 

CHEAP PRINTER INK AND HOW TO MAKE CARTRIDGES LASTING LONGER  

Cybercriminals with malicious intent could infiltrate the WiFi network of your home and gain access to all devices connected to it. This includes your printer. (CyberGuy.com)

Once they’ve retrieved data from a computer printer, they are able to conduct ransomware, send threatening message through the printer and more. 

How can I protect my printer against being hacked? 

You can protect your printer in several ways, depending on its make and model. You should always make sure that you are using the latest version of your printer. Read the manual for your printer model Check to see if there are any security features highlighted. 

Make sure you have the latest version of your software 

If you go to the settings of your printer, you can check if there are any patches or updates for the firmware and software. If your printer has security features such as user authentication, encryption, or access control, you should enable them. 

Change your default password 

You should change the default password of your printer immediately to a unique, strong password. This will help prevent unauthorized access to sensitive information such as print jobs and network credentials. 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 network is secure 

Use a strong and unique password to protect your Wi-Fi network. You should Avoid using public WiFi networks The following are some examples of how to get started: Use a VPN with a secure router Connect to your printer via a Wi-Fi network.  Find out my top picks for routers. CyberGuy.com/SecureRouters . 

How to check if someone is stealing your WI-FI and what you can do about it 

Disable unneeded features 

You may not need or use certain features, like faxing and remote printing. By disabling these functions, you can minimize the chance of your printer being hacked and reduce its attack surface. 

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: Use free antivirus software? 

Installing an antivirus program will help you avoid accidentally clicking on malicious links and thereby installing malware. You can also use it to remove existing malware.   (CyberGuy.com)

Install a Firewall for your WiFi and Printer 

Installing a fire wall can protect your printer against unauthorized access. A firewall installed on your WiFi network may attempt to prevent you from printing. There are ways to configure the firewall’s settings so that it doesn’t block communication. This depends on which server you use. Installing a firewall is easy. 

Check your The router is connected to the modem using an Ethernet cable  

Search for your Admin control panel of router You can consult your user’s manual for more information or type the router’s IP address directly into the address bar in your web browser. 

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

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

You will most likely lose your router Apply the new firewall settings 

The specific steps will vary depending on your router’s model and manufacturer. Some routers come pre-installed with a default firewall, so you should check the settings of your router before installing a new one. 

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