SECURE MPS
reality in 2026 is far more digital,” he adds. “The biggest headache right now is lateral movement. “Think of a modern MFP not as a printer, but as a sophisticated server that just happens to handle paper. If that endpoint is left wide open with unpatched firmware or default credentials, it becomes a perfect digital beachhead. “Attackers do not just want your scans; they want to use that printer to hop across your network into high-value data. We are seeing a lot of automated scanning of old vulnerabilities and wide- open ports. It is a stealthy game of follow the leader, where the printer is often the first follower.” Kerry Rush, product marketing manager at Sharp UK, says the most common security threats to MPS arise from the growing connectivity of ‘smart offices,’ where printers and multifunction devices are often networked and cloud enabled. “Without robust and regularly updated cyber security measures, these devices can become vulnerable entry points for cyber attackers,” she explains. “Key risks include unprotected devices, outdated firmware, weak authentication protocols, unsecured network connections and lack of proper employee training. Attackers actively seek out these weaknesses, and even minor oversights, such as leaving sensitive documents in output trays or failing to update device software, can be exploited for unauthorised access or data theft.” AI influence AI is also influencing the threat landscape and the response. “Attackers are using automation to identify weaknesses more quickly and scale their efforts,” says Deyon. “In parallel, AI driven analytics are being used by vendors such as Toshiba to strengthen defences, helping to identify unusual behaviour, automate policy enforcement and reduce exposure through proactive device monitoring and patching.
related breach is no longer a remote possibility; it is a genuine statistical probability. If a device is connected but forgotten, it is essentially a beacon for automated bots. It is less about being a specific target and more about having a digital front door that has been left unlocked.” Deyon Antoine product marketing manager at Toshiba Tec UK Imaging Systems Ltd, says threats are increasing primarily because print environments are becoming more distributed. “Hybrid working, cloud connectivity and multi- site estates make it harder to maintain consistent standards without the right tools in place,” he says. “For many organisations, the question is no longer whether print will be tested as part of a broader attack, but whether they have sufficient visibility, control and resilience to limit impact. This is where the channel can add real value by reframing MPS as a risk reduction strategy, not just an operational service.” Common threats Ian Fox, channel solutions and services specialist at Xerox UK & Ireland, says the most common threats involve unauthorised access to print environments and the exposure of sensitive data across networks. “Print devices and print infrastructure are often overlooked, which makes them attractive entry points for attackers,” he adds. “Typical vulnerabilities include unpatched device firmware or print servers, weak or default credentials, insecure network configurations and a lack of visibility across distributed fleets. As attacks become more targeted, print environments are increasingly seen as part of the broader attack surface rather than isolated systems.” Steve says it is easy to think of print security as just stopping someone from accidentally picking up a sensitive document off the exit tray. “But the
Contributors
Stuart Miller
canon.co.uk
Steve Doust
kyoceradocument solutions.co.uk
Attackers do not just want your scans; they want to use that printer to hop across your network into high- value data. “ ”
CONTINUED
printinthechannel.co.uk
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