HP Wolf Security has released a new report showing how many organizations are overlooking printer security. Based on feedback from over 800 IT and security decision-makers, the report highlights gaps in securing printer hardware and firmware at every stage of a printer’s lifecycle.
Only 36% of IT teams apply firmware updates promptly, even though they spend 3.5 hours monthly per printer managing security issues. Delays in updating expose printers to risks like data theft or device hijacking.
In the early stage of supplier selection, 60% warn that a lack of coordination between procurement, IT and security increases risk. Many teams skip security checks during vendor selection and can’t confirm if devices have been tampered with on delivery.
Later during use only a third can spot hardware vulnerabilities or unauthorized changes. 70% also worry about sensitive documents being mishandled physically.
At the end of a printer’s life, 86% say security concerns make reuse or recycling difficult. A quarter believe destroying the device is the only safe option.
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