Report reveals print security breaches impact ANZ firms

A report by Canon Oceania highlights the critical need for organisations in Australia and New Zealand (ANZ) to integrate print security into their cybersecurity strategies.

The report, titled "Transforming Print and Document Management in Australia and New Zealand," reveals that 78% of organisations in the region have encountered at least one print security incident over the last two years. The report underscores the necessity for addressing potential vulnerabilities in print and document management to enhance overall cybersecurity measures.

The findings of the report, prepared by IDC Asia/Pacific, emerge from data gathered from over 200 decision-makers across small and medium businesses (SMBs), enterprises, and government organisations in ANZ. This research illustrates a substantial number of print security incidents, prompting many organisations to actively plan increased spending on print and document cybersecurity. Almost half of the surveyed organisations (49%) intend to boost their investments in this sector within the next year, reflecting a broader awareness of cybersecurity risks and the importance of comprehensive data protection, especially in hybrid work settings.

Peter Kenny, Manager, Information Security at Canon Oceania, commented on the importance of print security, saying, "Common issues also include default printer passwords, unsecure print jobs, unsecure network connections and outdated firmware. For businesses, the first step is better understanding their current systems and then making the changes required not only to be more secure but also more efficient."

Mitchell Filby, an industry expert on business strategy, also commented on the importance of print security, saying, "The potential risks associated with unsecured print environments can have severe implications for an organisation's reputation, financial health, and long-term success. By asking the right questions and partnering with a Managed Print Services provider that prioritises security, executives can protect their organisations from these risks and ensure a secure, efficient, and sustainable print environment." 

In response to the pressing need for digital advancement, the report identifies that only 24% of document workflows within corporate departments are currently digitised. This slow adoption means businesses are missing out on benefits such as improved compliance, security enhancements, and potential revenue growth. However, the report forecasts an increase in the digitalisation of document workflows by up to 40% within the next two years, signalling a positive shift in this trend.

Cloud integration in the print environment also features prominently in the report. It highlights that less than half (46%) of ANZ businesses have adopted cloud printing solutions, citing challenges like concerns over connectivity, integration complexities, and user adoption as barriers. To address these issues, 30% of the surveyed businesses plan to implement cloud-based printing in the coming two years.

Kenny noted: "The report findings reflect the conversations we are having with customers as they start to look at their wider cybersecurity infrastructure and address vulnerabilities. The issue for a long time has been people not understanding the importance of print and document management as a key component of that overall security consideration and risk management."

Furthermore, the report sheds light on emerging trends, including a focus on sustainability and the environmental, social, and governance (ESG) capabilities of vendors, demonstrating a regional shift towards more intelligent and sustainable document management practices.

Mike Murase, Senior Director of Sales & Support Group at Canon Oceania, emphasised the opportunity for businesses: "While this research shows clear gaps in print and document workflows across ANZ business, leaders are seeing this as an opportunity to modernise and secure the way they work. While it's not a change that will happen overnight, investment in this area and collaboration with service partners like Canon Oceania are key to those who want to make the necessary changes within their business."

The report also examines the role of Generative AI (GenAI) in transforming how organisations handle their print and document environments. Despite current low adoption rates, with only 17%, there is an anticipated increase in GenAI integration within ANZ organisations, indicating a potential for significant productivity boosts in the future.