It's a copier, no it's a computer...

TomC · 2005-04-12T01:46:05+00:00

An office for which I consult just purchased a Savin 4045sp copier/scanner/printer. I would normally handle any computer-related purchases, but since this was "just a copier," I didn't hear about it until the deal was completed. The more I see of its specs, the more the Savin looks like an Internet-capable computer with potentially serious security issues.Besides being able to serve as a network printer, it has a 20 GB hard drive, and can connect to the Internet to upload its own "scan and send" emails. The salesman convinced the office manager that there would be no problem connecting the device to the current network, since he would provide a wireless network access point that would simply plug into our 10-100 switch. Confirming my worst fears, the Savin manual says that the 4045sp uses the obsolete WEP encryption for its wireless connection.I think that I can prevail against the wireless option, but not against using the Savin as a network printer. That "scan and send" feature really bothers me. It means that a device running software that I have not installed and do not understand could upload confidential client files to the Internet as email attachments. If I connect the Savin to the Internet, can it be hacked? I don't normally have to worry about shielding the server from access by its network printers, but in this case maybe I should.Next, the microwave will be demanding its own static IP.Comments & suggested reading appreciated.

Apr 12, 2005 20 Replies

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TomC 21 years ago

ht;

It's a Savin 4045ESP, but it prints config pages saying it is a Ricoh Aficio

2045e. I don't have the card/software info here.

Great, then I have a question. I should be able to keep the Savin off our broadband by blocking its IP, giving it an incorrect gateway, etc. However, it also serves as a fax, so it has its own phone line and modem. Can the software/firmware in this thing be rewritten remotely over a phone line?

OK, maybe I am being a bit paranoid here, but I'm still curious.

Thanks.

Tom

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