Can a printer get a virus? It sounds crazy doesn’t it? You don’t think of it as a computer, just some ink and a paper feed. It is easy to see why then most businesses would not list their office printer as a cyber security risk but they should.
Modern printers and multifunction devices (MFDs) are no longer passive tools. They are fully networked computers with storage, firmware, and remote access capabilities. Like any connected device, they can be compromised. You will often hear of this world being referred to as The Internet of Things (IoT) and it is growing fast and can be prone to making us a little lax in our security.
Cyber criminals know this. Printers are often overlooked during security audits, and attackers use that blind spot to gain access to wider systems.
Why Printers Are a Target for Cyber Attacks?
Office printers are attractive to attackers because:
- They are commonplace and are connected to your network
- Most business printers have direct access to file servers, user directories, and cloud services.
- They store sensitive data
Many devices keep digital copies of recent print, scan, and fax jobs, often unencrypted.
- They are rarely updated
Unlike laptops or servers, printer firmware is often ignored when it comes to applying security updates.
- They offer remote access features
Admin panels, scan to email, and cloud print features can be exposed to the internet, often without proper controls.
What a Printer-Based Attack Looks Like
Credential theft
An attacker accesses the printer’s admin panel using a default password and uses it to harvest saved credentials or intercept scans.
Lateral movement of the cyber attack
Once inside the printer, attackers move across the network, escalating access, deploying malware, or harvesting data.
Rogue printing or service disruption
Compromised printers can be used to send spam jobs, overload systems, or disrupt workflows.
Malware injection
In some cases, attackers upload malicious firmware to weaponise the printer itself.
Can a Printer Get a Virus? Yes. The Real World Risk for SMEs
Printers are often trusted and unmonitored. That makes them a convenient entry point for attackers, especially in small and medium-sized businesses without dedicated IT security support.
Even small breaches via printers can lead to:
- Exposure of sensitive documents
- Data protection compliance failures
- Network wide compromise
- Operational disruption and reputational damage
How to Protect Your Business from a Printer Virus
Change default passwords
Replace manufacturer admin credentials on all networked printers.
Apply firmware updates to your printers
Treat printers like any other device. Regularly check for and install firmware updates from the vendor.
Restrict access
Place printers on separate networks where possible and apply access controls through firewalls or routers.
Turn off unused printer features
Disable web admin access, cloud sync, or mobile printing if not essential.
Monitor usage
Check device logs for unusual behaviour such as excessive jobs, unknown access attempts, or unexpected updates.
Include printers in audits
Make printers part of your regular IT security reviews and updates.
Want help closing overlooked risks to your peripheral devices?
Amicis Group supports SMEs in identifying and securing devices that often fall through the cracks, including printers, phones, and cloud connected tools.
Contact us today to arrange a quick assessment of your business devices and network exposure.
