Have you ever thought about all the different ways you’re exposing your company to cybercrime or data hacks? Did you think that these could occur through your copier/printer?
No one can understate the importance of security in times like these, and especially with many employees still working from home. That’s why we, as experienced Xerox copier/printer vendors, have compiled this blog showcasing the many different ways that Xerox leads the industry in printer security, and why you can have peace of mind when printing to a Xerox device.
Why Is Printer Security Important?
Security in any piece of technology is important. A printer or multifunction printer has components that make it function very similarly to a computer, and in today’s world, no one should have a computer that is unprotected from outside intrusion- so why wouldn’t we want the same for our printing devices?
A global print study conducted in 2022 by Quocirca found that 68% of companies have experienced a data loss due to print security failures in the past year.
What Happens If I Don’t Take Printer Security Seriously?
Underestimating the importance of printer security is a common but crucial mistake. Poor printer security leaves organizations open to cyber threats and sensitive data leaks, which can lead to major fines and loss of important company information.
If your company is the victim of a cyberattack, you could find yourselves spending thousands attempting to recoup valuable data. The World Economic Forum estimates that the economic cost of cybercrime equals $1 trillion worldwide, and the average cost of a print-related data loss is $409,000.
Xerox Security Initiatives
Prevent, Detect, Protect
Xerox’s comprehensive approach to printer security encompasses three main stages: Prevent, Detect, and Protect. For the most robust features around security, there is some end-user or IT enablement that should be done upon installation.
To prevent intrusion, Xerox utilizes User Authentication and Role-Based Access Control, so that only authorized users can access sensitive information, and each user sees only the information designated for them. Xerox ConnectKey then stops malicious software in its tracks, rendering it useless and unable to corrupt the device. Having a robust and comprehensive first line of defense is crucial when it comes to cybersecurity and mitigating data loss.
When it comes to detecting any form of malware, Firmware Verification Tests are run each time the device is started, and alerts are issued in the unlikely event of an intrusion.
Finally, Xerox protects user data with pin code/card release systems, encryption, password-protected file formats, and even the U.S Department of Defense-approved data clearing. No unauthorized disclosure or modification will occur with Xerox ConnectKey technology, and users will only be able to see exactly what they’re allowed to.
Secure Printing Features
- Secure Print
Control print timing through simultaneous password protection, so your important documents aren’t just sitting on the tray for the world to see.
- Image Overwrite
Using an algorithm designed by the U.S Department of Defense, completely wipe all hard-drive information at user discretion either automatically, scheduled, or on-demand.
- Data Encryption
Any data that runs through the device is automatically encrypted with either Secure Sockets Layer (SSL), Transport Layer Security (TLS), or Internet Protocol Security (IPSec).
- Access Control/User Authorization
System administrators can grant authorization of different levels to certain users, and each login must be authenticated before the documents can be accessed.
- Removable Hard Disk Drive Accessory/Kit
System administrators can remove and lock-up the physical hard-drive, allowing for peace of mind when leaving the device unattended.
- Network Security
Protect your device from unauthorized remote access and guard your data as it travels across your network with features like IP Filtering, IPSec, data encryption, and 802.1 device authentication.
Partnerships
Xerox partners with McAfee for their advanced Whitelisting technology, allowing only secure and pre-authorized applications to run on the device, and frequent monitoring for any software-altering attempts.
Xerox also utilizes McAfee Embedded Control, alerting system administrators anytime there is a blocked activity attempt or application change. And with McAfee’s ePolicy Orchestrator, IT administrators across the board can secure important processes and work cohesively with one another.
Xerox also partners with the market leader Cisco to bring users their Identity Services Engine on over 200 Xerox device models, providing security through its integrated device sensors that consistently identify all network-connected devices.
Awards and Certifications
FedRAMP
FedRAMP, also known as the Federal Risk and Authorization Management Program is a standardized certification for cloud products and services. Xerox has been FedRAMP certified since 2018, meaning that Xerox’s security standards are high enough to be utilized by the United States government, and are being used in the Department of Homeland Security, as well as the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services.
Xerox is currently the only print vendor to receive federal authorization at this level, and meet the requirements such as:
- Advanced threat monitoring and incident response
- Benchmark training, hiring, and change management
- Device security, encryption, and compliance
Being FedRAMP certified offers a variety of benefits to end-users including world-class security standards and real-time risk management and transparency.
NIAP Full System Certification
The National Information Assurance Partnership has granted Xerox AltaLink devices the first US-based Common Criteria Certification, proving Xerox as an industry leader after numerous tests and rigorous criteria that must be met.
After reading this article, we hope you have a better understanding of the importance of printer security, and we also hope to have provided you peace of mind knowing that Xerox has taken every possible step in securing your data and information.
For additional questions or concerns about securing your data and ensuring your device has top-of-the-line security features enabled, contact us and a member of our team will assist you.
