Data Security for Office Technology Dealers: Big Headache or Big Opportunity?

By Jay Allpress, GreatAmerica – Regardless of the industry you serve, IT security is a hot and relevant topic. High profile cyber security breaches like the Facebook and Equifax hacks have made headlines in the last few years, and as a result, buyers have become more aware and more educated on just how important it is that their data is protected. More information is being stored and more devices are connected to the network, printers included. Without the proper precautions in place, this data becomes vulnerable.

The Importance of Cyber Security In the Office Technology Realm

Consider that most printers do more than print; they also fax, scan, email—all through the network they are connected to. They send information and store information, and as with any network connected device, they too are vulnerable to cyber security threats. Hackers target printers just as they would laptops or computers. In fact, according to a business and IT analysis conducted by Quocirca, data losses in 2018 related to print remained widespread across companies of all sizes that use MPS. In 2018, 65% reported at least one data loss, an increase from 60% in 2017. Notably this rises to 70% for midmarket organizations and drops to 60% for larger organizations.