Office Devices Are Becoming Tools for Scams: What You Need to Know
Cybercriminals are finding new ways to infiltrate businesses — and one of the latest tricks involves everyday office devices like printers and scanners. Instead of breaking into email accounts, hackers are exploiting Microsoft 365’s Direct Send feature to send phishing emails that look like they came from inside your company.
When these messages appear as document alerts or voicemail notifications, employees are more likely to trust them, click links, and unknowingly expose your business to stolen data, compromised login credentials, or malicious software.
How Hackers Exploit Office Devices
Microsoft 365’s Direct Send was designed for smoother internal communication. But attackers now use it to send convincing phishing emails that bypass standard security filters. Since these emails mimic routine internal messages, they easily trick unsuspecting staff.
Why Office Devices Are a Target
Printers, scanners, and other connected office tools are often overlooked in cybersecurity strategies. Yet, they handle sensitive information daily and can act as gateways for hackers if left unsecured.
How to Protect Your Business from Device-Based Phishing
- Check your email settings – Enable robust security features to authenticate emails and detect spoofing attempts.
- Secure all devices – Regularly update and patch printers, scanners, and smart office equipment. Watch for unusual signs like flashing lights or unexpected noises.
- Train employees – Educate staff to recognize suspicious emails, especially those that seem to come from within the company.
- Monitor email activity – Set alerts for unusual patterns, like messages being sent from unrecognized devices or strange destinations.
Stay Proactive, Stay Protected
Cybercriminals look for weak points in your system — and if a device connects to your network, it’s a potential vulnerability. Protecting your business means treating every device as a part of your cybersecurity strategy. With proactive monitoring, employee awareness, and consistent updates, you can stay one step ahead of phishing attacks.
At CloudSpace, a leading cybersecurity consulting firm in Houston, we help businesses strengthen their defenses against evolving threats — from phishing attacks to network vulnerabilities. Our team ensures that every device in your workplace, from printers to servers, is protected with the latest security solutions. Don’t wait until cybercriminals find a way in — safeguard your business today with CloudSpace’s expert cybersecurity services.
