Bitdefender: Powerful Antivirus Protection for Sharp Printer Security

Often overlooked as a gateway into your network, your copier is the most unsuspecting way cybercriminals gain access to your company information. In fact, according to a study by Quocirca, over two thirds of organizations have experienced data losses due to unsecure printing practices last year. The report also mentions that printer security is lower on the security agenda than say email or cloud platforms. Which is why with the recent launch of our new BP line of copiers, we decided to layer on the ultimate cybersecurity tools to keep customers one step ahead.

Why does a copier need anti-virus software?

Compromised endpoints cause more than half of data breaches. A copier, like any other computer device or endpoint connected to a network, is vulnerable to cyber-attacks and malware. In fact, copiers store sensitive information on their drives, making them a prime target for cyber criminals. When organizations leave their copier vulnerable, hackers can access the device and plant trojans, steal credentials or use the multifunction printer (MFP) to spread malware throughout the network. Copiers can also be compromised by employees plugging in USB devices that have been unknowingly infected with malware.

Bitdefender Antivirus protection for Sharp copiers provides an added layer of protection by detecting and blocking malicious software that could be installed or passed through on a copier via infected files or internet connections. Bitdefender Antivirus can complement the native security features of the MFP, protecting it against known and unknown malware threats such as:

• Viruses
• Trojans
• Worms
• Ransomware
• Spyware
• Advanced Persistent Threats
• General malware

Bitdefender antivirus protection is the ideal printer security solution for Sharp multifunction printers because it scans all data and files processed by the device, protecting organizations from malicious activity  before it impacts  their business.

“Any device with an IP address connected to a corporate network represents a potential access point for cybercriminals to exploit. Attackers target MFPs and other internet of things (IoT) devices because they know these devices are often left unprotected,” said Sorin Dediu, vice president of Products and Engineering at Bitdefender. “We are happy to partner with Sharp to help make its MFPs more secure and resilient, and better protect its customers from advanced threats.”  

Who is Bitdefender?

Bitdefender is a cybersecurity leader delivering best-in-class threat prevention, detection, and response solutions worldwide. Guardian over millions of consumers, business, and government environments, Bitdefender is one of the industry’s most trusted experts for eliminating threats, protecting privacy and data, and enabling cyber resilience. With deep investments in research and development, Bitdefender Labs discovers over 400 new threats each minute and validates around 40 billion daily threat queries. The company has pioneered breakthrough innovations in antimalware, IoT security, behavioral analytics, and artificial intelligence, and its technology is licensed by more than 180 of the world’s most recognized technology brands. Launched in 2001, Bitdefender has customers in 170+ countries with offices around the world.

 Its award-winning antimalware engine that uses advanced technologies such as machine learning and behavioral analysis protect users against a full range of cyber threats in real-time – with industry leading detection accuracy.

How does Bitdefender work in Sharp copiers?

Bitdefender is built into the firmware of Sharp MFPs. Once activated, it uses machine learning algorithms and advanced technologies to detect malware. Sharp devices schedule regular scans to ensure the best protection against such threats. Bitdefender also conducts scans in real-time whenever data is sent or received, such as during a print job from the cloud, updating an application or running a firmware update. Users can also run a virus scan on demand from the control panel. All related activities will be recorded in the MFP Audit Log when enabled. Virus scanning information will be displayed in the 'System Information' section of the control panel and urgent alerts will be displayed in the notification area.

Why is Bitdefender a strong antivirus solution for Sharp MFPs?

Bitdefender takes a layered approach to malware detection, using many different technologies to provide proactive printer security protection for unknown threats before they can infiltrate the user’s system.

 The Bitdefender antimalware engine employs specific signatures of known malware, as well as behavior-based heuristics, context-aware behavior analysis, and emulation to quickly detect and block new threats that have yet to be identified by industry experts - giving users the most comprehensive protection available.

Another key feature of Bitdefender antivirus technology is its automatic updates. As cyber threats evolve, Bitdefender automatically updates its software to keep your copier protected against the latest threats. This ensures that your copier is always up to date and secured without interrupting their day-to-day operations.

Another benefit is its seamless integration with Sharp MFPs. Once purchased, the  software is  easy to activate and use.

Copiers are often overlooked when it comes to cybersecurity, but they are just as vulnerable to attacks as any other device. With Bitdefender’s advanced security features and regular updates, your Sharp copier has a line of defense against the latest threats. If you’d like to learn more about the other security features of Sharp copiers, visit business.sharpusa.com/Document-Systems/Security