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Printing and scanning remain security risks because connected multifunction devices, the accounts and software behind them, and even QR codes printed on paper can expose systems or data. The risks are distinct: a device may be compromised or retain information, scan-to-share credentials may grant excessive access, print-management servers may contain exploitable software, and a QR code may lead a person to a phishing page. Each path calls for its own controls.
Why are printers and scanners part of the security surface?
Networked printers, copiers, and scanners are information-system components, not just peripherals. NIST explains that multifunction devices may connect to networks, run common commercial operating systems, and store information on nonvolatile media. Those capabilities make device inventory, configuration review, access control, and vulnerability management relevant to print and scan equipment. See NIST guidance on multifunction devices.
Internal storage does not mean every device keeps every job indefinitely. Storage behavior depends on the device and its configuration; the practical point is to treat the device as a managed endpoint and understand what data it handles and retains.
Can a network printer be hacked?
Yes. A network-connected printer or scanner can be exposed through weak administration, unnecessary network access, or vulnerable software. Default credentials are a particular concern. CISA and NSA warn that attackers who access a device using default credentials may be able to use privileged domain accounts loaded for scanning workflows to move laterally and compromise the domain. Their advisory, “NSA and CISA Red and Blue Teams Share Top Ten Cybersecurity Misconfigurations,” describes why convenience accounts can turn a device compromise into a wider network incident.
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Reduce device and credential exposure
- Include printers, copiers, and scanners in the organization’s asset inventory and configuration reviews.
- Change default administration credentials and use unique credentials for device management.
- Use narrowly scoped accounts for scan-to-shared-drive or scan-to-email workflows instead of privileged domain accounts.
- Restrict device interfaces and network access to what the equipment and workflows actually require.
Can a printer expose documents?
Potentially. A device may store information internally, and scan destinations may be accessible through accounts configured on the device. Exposure depends on device capabilities, settings, access controls, and the workflow; it is not accurate to assume that every printer retains every document or that every stored job is automatically exposed.
Organizations should establish what data devices process, review storage and retention settings, and apply appropriate protections to data on devices and files. CISA’s guidance on protecting data stored on devices also recommends encryption and backups as data-protection measures.
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Why does print-management software need patching?
Print-management servers are software systems with their own attack surface. In a joint advisory dated May 11, 2023, the FBI and CISA documented malicious exploitation of CVE-2023-27350 in specified PaperCut NG/MF versions. The advisory described unauthenticated remote code execution and recommended upgrading; if immediate patching was not possible, it advised keeping vulnerable servers off the internet and applying network controls. See the FBI/CISA advisory on CVE-2023-27350.
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That 2023 incident demonstrates why print-management software belongs in software inventories and patch processes. The affected-version ranges in that historical advisory are not a current vulnerability inventory; administrators should consult current vendor guidance and verify the versions in use before deciding what remediation is needed.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Is it safe to scan a QR code on a flyer?
A QR code is a link whose destination may be difficult to inspect before scanning. Codes printed on paper can be replaced or cloned to redirect people to malicious destinations. The Canadian Centre for Cyber Security discusses phishing and malware risks in its QR-code security guidance. An HHS-hosted healthcare-sector white paper advises, “Do not scan a randomly found QR code,” and cautions readers to be suspicious when a QR-linked site asks for a password or login information. The HHS document’s guidance is framed for the healthcare sector, but the destination-trust issue applies more broadly; see “QR Codes and Phishing as a Threat to the HPH”.
- Be cautious with unexpected or randomly found codes, including stickers placed over legitimate-looking ones.
- Check the destination shown by your device before opening it, and do not enter credentials on a page reached through an unexpected code.
- If a code claims to be from an organization, use a trusted route to reach that organization instead of relying on the printed link.
Scanning a QR code does not automatically infect a device. The risk is being routed to a deceptive site or other malicious destination and then taking an unsafe action, such as entering credentials.
Quick Recap
Rank #4
Which controls address which risk?
| Risk path | What to review | Practical response |
|---|---|---|
| Device or stored-data exposure | Network access, configuration, credentials, storage, and data handled | Inventory and secure devices; change defaults; limit access; review storage and protect device and file data. |
| Scan-to-share access | Accounts and permissions used for destinations | Replace privileged workflow accounts with narrowly scoped accounts and limit interfaces to operational needs. |
| Print-management software | Installed software versions, patch status, and internet exposure | Track software and apply current vendor guidance; restrict network exposure where needed. |
| QR-code phishing | Whether the code is expected, where it leads, and whether the destination requests credentials | Use caution with unfamiliar codes, inspect destinations, and avoid credential prompts reached unexpectedly. |
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