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Hackers don’t always appear as creepy, dark figures wearing hoodies and typing away at lines of code. Most of the time, they can look like any average person. They can also get onto your network through a variety of unsuspecting ways, and yes, even through toner cartridges.
According to a report from Repro Products, 94% of small to mid-sized businesses have experienced at least one cyberattack in 2025. Cyber-crimes are increasing and starting to get more creative in the ways they can get into your network through shady methods.
Last Updated: August 2026
Can Toner Cartridges Get Hacked?
Yes, toner cartridges can get hacked. Print cartridges have small chips located on their surfaces that talk to the printer they go into. If you get a cartridge from a third party, they likely have weaker chips that can be accessed and reprogrammed with harmful malware.
Even recycled cartridges could have data on the chips that have not been wiped properly. These factors can lead to two things–a hacker could reprogram the chip to spread malware, or a companies’ data that failed to be wiped from the chip after use could be leaked if it falls into the wrong hands.
What Happens if your Printer Cartridge gets Hacked?
If a toner cartridge’s chip has been compromised and the cartridge is entered into a company printer, an unauthorized user could immediately have access and control of that printer. Classified documents, sensitive data, and a company's network could be compromised.
Manufacturers have recognized these new, tactful threats to users’ cybersecurity. Most recommend not using third party supplies that are potentially lacking extra protection. HP has introduced their OEM cartridges designed with tamper-resistant microchips with smart-card technology and security-hardened firmware. The chips in these cartridges are protected against modification to its code, blocking users from the threat of malware and leaks.
Can Toner Cartridges Spread Malware?
Yes, it is possible that a compromised toner cartridge chip could be used to spread malicious code onto a printer when inserted. Today, toner cartridges have microchips that communicate with printers that track usage and other data.
Those chips can be programmed or altered with malware. This is not super common, but it does happen so making sure you are purchasing your supplies from a trusted provider and using printers with built in security controls can help you avoid a malware attack.
Other Printer Security Risks
Outdated Printers
Another way hackers are getting into networks is through outdated printers.
How can people hack an old printer?
Through pre-existing hard disk images, unsecure MFP functions, and open network ports. Making sure your printer is properly updated is part of maintaining its overall security.
Just as physical printers can be outdated, so can the security software on those devices, which can lead to holes in your security and the potential for open vulnerabilities.
Keeping your printer updated includes keeping up with newer models that have upgraded security firmware and patching.
Unsecured Multifunction Printers
Multifunction Printers (MFPs) can be a security vulnerability if their built-in features are not properly secured.
Many modern devices can print, scan, copy, email, and store documents, making them valuable targets for cybercriminals. If security settings are left at their default configurations, unauthorized users may be able to access stored files, intercept scanned documents, or gain entry into the network.
To reduce the probability of this happening to your printer, change default credentials, use zero-trust framework like limited access, secure printing, encrypt stored data, and regularly review device security settings.
Treating MFPs with the same level of protection as computers and servers helps prevent them from becoming an overlooked entry point for attackers.
Assessments like penetration tests and print assessments can audit whether or not printers have security vulnerabilities that could be exploitable.
What Other Devices and Practices Put Business Networks at Risk?
There are many ways cyber criminals can gain access to your sensitive information, other than reprogramming printer cartridges.
Phishing Scams
Phishing scams are mostly experienced through email, posing as trusted users or companies to prompt unsuspecting users to click a fake link or provide sensitive information for the sake of obtaining passwords or even money.
When the scammer obtains private information such as passwords and usernames, this opens the door of the network for the cyber-criminal to be able to get access to tons more of your business’ vulnerabilities.
MFA Scams
Multi-factor authentication can be one of the best methods for protecting your network. Knowing this, many hackers have developed ways to scam users with false MFAs. These scams are typically in the form of phishing emails or MFA bombing. Once a user unknowingly falls for one of these scams, criminals can gain access to private domains and accounts, as well as spread malware on different devices.
Unstable VPNs
VPNs can be great tools for barricading your network against potential threats, however, a VPN provided by a third party might not be secure. An unstable VPN could become compromised by a hacker. VPNs are only as secure as the ones providing you with it. It’s crucial to ensure your choice of VPN isn’t just the least expensive option, but one provided by a trustworthy vendor, and one backed by other cybersecurity methods as well. “Are VPNs Safe for Your Business?” covers the ins-and-outs of what makes a VPN stable vs. unstable and exhibits how a secure VPN could benefit your business.
How Businesses Can Protect Themselves
Protecting your business from printer-related cyber threats requires a combination of secure hardware, maintenance, and employee awareness. While no device is completely immune to cyberattacks, organizations can significantly reduce their risk by implementing a layered security approach.
Best practices include:
- Use OEM toner cartridges from trusted manufacturers whenever possible.
- Keep printer firmware and software updated with the latest security patches.
- Change default passwords and require strong authentication.
- Monitor network-connected printers for unusual activity.
- Restrict printer access to authorized users and devices.
- Conduct regular cybersecurity assessments to identify vulnerabilities.
- Train employees to recognize phishing scams, MFA fraud, and other social engineering attacks.
By taking these steps, businesses can strengthen both their printer security and their overall cybersecurity posture. As cyber threats continue to evolve, a proactive approach is the best defense against potential attacks.
Start Increasing Your Security Today
No device is safe these days, but that doesn’t mean your business can’t meet those threats with a full armory and line of defense. Methods of protecting your network are evolving to become stronger and more resilient, shown through the new ways of securing toner cartridges.
Usherwood provides clients with toner cartridges from their original manufacturers, minimizing the risk of compromise through preprogrammed chips. We're here to assist your business with all its security needs. Remember, you’re not alone in your fight against threats to your network. Reach out to us to receive a Tech Evaluation, so we can access all your network’s potential vulnerabilities and what we can do to ensure your business’ sensitive information is safe.
