The Forgotten Targets | How Hackers Exploit Old School Devices Like Fax Machines

Table of Contents

• Why Hackers Target Old-School Devices
• How Fax Machines Become Vulnerable
• Real-World Examples of Fax Machine Hacks
• Other Forgotten Devices at Risk
• Protecting Your Old-School Devices
• Conclusion
• Frequently Asked Questions

Why Hackers Target Old-School Devices

Old-school devices like fax machines, dot-matrix printers, and legacy telephones often fly under the radar in cybersecurity discussions. But this is exactly why hackers find them appealing. Here’s why these devices are prime targets:

• Lack of Security Updates: Unlike modern devices, fax machines rarely receive firmware updates or security patches, leaving known vulnerabilities unaddressed.
• Network Connectivity: Many older devices are now connected to networks, either directly or through multifunction printers, making them potential entry points to larger systems.
• Overlooked by IT Teams: IT departments often prioritize securing computers and servers, neglecting devices like fax machines that seem low-risk.
• Weak Authentication: Fax machines often lack strong password protection or user authentication, making them easy to access remotely.

These factors create a perfect storm for hackers looking for an easy way into a network. A fax machine might seem harmless, but if it’s connected to your network, it could be the weakest link in your cybersecurity chain.

How Fax Machines Become Vulnerable

Fax machines operate using the T.30 protocol, a standard from the 1980s that was designed for analog phone lines, not modern internet-connected networks. When fax machines are integrated into digital systems, they introduce several vulnerabilities:

These vulnerabilities highlight the importance of treating fax machines as potential security risks rather than harmless office relics.

Real-World Examples of Fax Machine Hacks

Fax machine vulnerabilities aren’t just theoretical—they’ve been exploited in real-world scenarios. Here are a few notable examples:

• The Faxploit Attack (2018): Security researchers demonstrated a vulnerability called “Faxploit” at DEF CON, showing how hackers could send a specially crafted fax to exploit weaknesses in multifunction printers with fax capabilities. By embedding malicious code in a faxed image, attackers could gain access to the device’s memory and move laterally across the network.
• Healthcare Breaches: In 2020, several healthcare organizations reported data breaches linked to fax machines. Hackers intercepted unencrypted faxes containing patient information, exposing sensitive data like Social Security numbers and medical histories.
• Corporate Espionage: In 2019, a financial firm discovered that hackers had used a fax machine’s network connection to infiltrate their system, stealing proprietary data over several months.

These incidents show that fax machines, often considered obsolete, are still active threats in modern cybersecurity landscapes.

Other Forgotten Devices at Risk

Fax machines aren’t the only old-school devices hackers target. Other legacy technologies can also serve as entry points:

• VoIP Phones: Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) phones can be hacked to eavesdrop on conversations or launch denial-of-service attacks.
• Dot-Matrix Printers: These printers, often connected to networks, can store sensitive data in their memory, which hackers can extract.
• Old Routers: Outdated routers with unpatched firmware are easy targets for remote attacks.
• Legacy Servers: Servers running old operating systems, like Windows XP, are highly vulnerable due to discontinued support.

Any device connected to a network, no matter how old, can be a potential weak point if not properly secured.

Protecting Your Old-School Devices

Securing old-school devices like fax machines requires a proactive approach. Here are practical steps to reduce risks:

• Regular Firmware Updates: Check for and apply firmware updates to fax machines and other legacy devices, if available.
• Network Segmentation: Isolate fax machines and other old devices on a separate network to limit access to sensitive systems.
• Strong Authentication: Change default passwords and implement strong authentication for device access.
• Encryption: Use encrypted fax solutions or secure email alternatives to protect sensitive data.
• Monitor Activity: Regularly monitor network traffic to detect unusual activity from old devices.
• Retire Obsolete Devices: If a device is no longer necessary, disconnect and retire it to eliminate potential vulnerabilities.

By treating old-school devices with the same security scrutiny as modern systems, businesses can significantly reduce their risk of cyberattacks.

Conclusion

Fax machines and other old-school devices may seem like relics of a bygone era, but they remain surprisingly relevant targets for hackers. Their lack of modern security features, network connectivity, and tendency to be overlooked make them ideal entry points for cybercriminals. By understanding the vulnerabilities of these devices, learning from real-world examples, and implementing protective measures, organizations can safeguard their networks from unexpected threats. Cybersecurity isn’t just about protecting the latest technology—it’s about ensuring every device, no matter how old, is secure. Stay vigilant, and don’t let forgotten devices become your weakest link.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do hackers target fax machines?

Fax machines are often overlooked, lack security updates, and may have weak authentication, making them easy entry points for hackers.

Are fax machines still widely used?

Yes, industries like healthcare, legal, and finance still use fax machines for transmitting sensitive documents.

How can a fax machine be hacked?

Hackers can exploit vulnerabilities like unencrypted data, default credentials, or malicious code embedded in faxes to gain access.

What is the Faxploit attack?

Faxploit is a demonstrated hack where malicious code in a faxed image exploits firmware weaknesses to control a device or network.

Can fax machines expose sensitive data?

Yes, unencrypted faxes can be intercepted, exposing sensitive information like medical records or financial details.

Are multifunction printers with fax capabilities vulnerable?

Yes, multifunction printers often inherit the same vulnerabilities as standalone fax machines if connected to a network.

How can I secure my fax machine?

Use strong passwords, update firmware, isolate it on a separate network, and consider encrypted fax solutions.

What other old devices are at risk?

VoIP phones, dot-matrix printers, old routers, and legacy servers are also vulnerable to cyberattacks.

Can hackers use fax machines to access my entire network?

Yes, if a fax machine is connected to your network, hackers can use it as a gateway to access other systems.

Should I stop using fax machines?

If possible, switch to secure alternatives like encrypted email. If you must use them, follow security best practices.

What is network segmentation?

Network segmentation involves isolating devices like fax machines on a separate network to limit their access to sensitive systems.

Are there modern alternatives to fax machines?

Yes, secure email, cloud-based document sharing, and encrypted messaging are safer alternatives.

Can fax machines store data?

Yes, many fax machines store sent and received faxes in memory, which hackers can potentially access.

How do I know if my fax machine is vulnerable?

Check if it’s network-connected, uses default credentials, or lacks recent firmware updates.

Are fax machines regulated for security?

No, fax machines are not subject to strict security regulations, which increases their vulnerability.

Can VoIP phones be hacked like fax machines?

Yes, VoIP phones can be exploited for eavesdropping or launching attacks if not properly secured.

What is remote code execution in fax machines?

It’s when hackers send malicious code in a fax to exploit device weaknesses, potentially taking control.

How often should I update fax machine firmware?

Check for updates quarterly or as recommended by the manufacturer.

Can I monitor my fax machine for suspicious activity?

Yes, use network monitoring tools to detect unusual traffic from your fax machine.

What should I do if my fax machine is hacked?

Disconnect it from the network, investigate the breach, update firmware, change credentials, and consult a cybersecurity expert.