Updated on July 10, 2023 at 2:36 p.m. EDT and originally published on July 10, 2023 at 6:00 a.m. EDT, this article explores the concerning issue of printer privacy. When it comes to printing important documents like tax forms or job contracts, it’s crucial to consider the privacy of the information being printed. However, many popular printing products and services fail to provide assurances of privacy. In fact, some even share user data with outside marketing firms.
The rise of digital file-sharing and questionable practices by printing manufacturers have led many households in the United States to abandon at-home printers and rely on nearby printing services instead. Major printer manufacturers have also embraced mobile apps and cloud-based storage, which creates opportunities for them to collect personal data from customers. Whether you’re walking to your local print shop or sending files to the cloud, it’s difficult to determine if your printing activities are truly private.
Ideally, printing services should avoid storing the content of customers’ files or, at the very least, delete them on a regular basis. Additionally, these services should be transparent about the data they collect and the reasons behind it. Some print services, such as the New York Public Library and PrintWithMe, prioritize both privacy and communication with customers.
In contrast, several companies were evasive when asked about their data collection, storage duration, and sharing practices. Canon, FedEx, and Staples were among those that declined to provide basic information about their privacy policies, which is concerning.
For those wondering about the privacy of their printer apps or printing services, here is an overview of printer privacy provided by The Washington Post Help Desk:
HP claims in its privacy policy that it does not store the content of files when customers use its printers or HP Smart app. Although the policy raises some concerns, HP seems to respect user privacy by not snooping on print jobs.
On the other hand, Canon’s privacy policy states that it can collect “files and other content” as part of users’ personal data. This includes images, descriptions, and metadata that may contain location information. While it doesn’t explicitly state that Canon stores, utilizes, or shares the content of printed documents, the policy does allow for potential marketing use.
FedEx’s privacy policy acknowledges the collection of “user uploaded information,” which includes the contents of documents uploaded for printing services. The policy permits FedEx to use this information for advertising purposes or share it with undisclosed third parties. Unfortunately, it does not disclose how long the data is retained.
UPS Store, although a collection of franchises, states in its privacy policy that it can store the contents of printed documents. However, the company claims not to use this information for marketing or advertising unless the user gives consent. The storage duration is not explicitly mentioned, but UPS honors data deletion requests from customers, even in states without specific privacy laws preserving that right.
Staples’ privacy policy allows for the storage of personal data, such as “copy/print materials, driver’s license number, passport number, and contents of mail.” It also leaves room for the use of copy/print materials for advertising purposes. Unfortunately, details about data retention are not provided.
PrintWithMe, a company that places printers in shared spaces like cafes, temporarily stores printed documents with a third-party cloud provider for 24 hours. The company’s founder and CEO, Jonathan Treble, emphasizes that this data is never used for advertising purposes. The specific third-party partner is undisclosed.
Each library can establish its own policies regarding printer privacy, so it is advisable to contact them before printing sensitive information. The New York Public Library, one of the largest library systems in the country, states that it does not store the contents of printed documents. Its computers only retain file names, which are deleted at the end of each day.
In conclusion, it is crucial for individuals to be aware of the privacy practices of their printer apps or printing services. While some companies prioritize privacy and provide clear policies, others are evasive or lack transparency. Customers should make informed decisions and prioritize their privacy when selecting printing services.
Denial of responsibility! VigourTimes is an automatic aggregator of Global media. In each content, the hyperlink to the primary source is specified. All trademarks belong to their rightful owners, and all materials to their authors. For any complaint, please reach us at – [email protected]. We will take necessary action within 24 hours.
