With global statistics predicting the cost of cybercrimes to reach $10.5 trillion, safeguarding your business’s data is no longer optional, but fundamentally necessary. In a business’s arsenal, tools to help protect against data breaches, scanning technology continues to shine as a key and often underrated asset to keeping sensitive data secure.

By digitising physical documents, scanning reduces the risk of data being stolen, misplaced or damaged in its physical form. Once converted, the data is stored in a secure virtual environment, often with layers of encryption and access controls to ensure its integrity, confidentiality and availability.

These digital document management systems also act as a frontline defence, protecting data from physical risks like fire or theft while offering robust cybersecurity features that deter online threats.

"Today’s scanning technology is equipped with advanced features that make it a powerful tool in cybersecurity," says Timothy Thomas, Country Manager at Epson South Africa. "Devices like the Epson WorkForce DS-790WN are designed with features such as advanced authentication, allowing businesses to set up multiple user accounts locally or remotely, ensuring that only authorised personnel can access sensitive documents. This level of control makes it an essential part of any business’s data protection strategy." 

How scanning technology enhances data security 

Modern scanning devices are no longer just about converting paper documents into digital files. Rather, they have evolved to become more sophisticated business tools that are capable of enhancing security at every step of the document management process.

Many scanning technologies now come equipped with built-in threat detection capabilities. For instance, scanners can identify and block malicious code embedded in scanned documents, ensuring harmful content does not enter the business’s network. Modern scanners also support secure file transfer protocols (such as encrypted data transfers) to prevent interception when documents are uploaded to storage systems or shared between employees.

In today’s fast-paced business environment, real-time protection is crucial. Modern scanning solutions integrate with cloud storage and cybersecurity systems to monitor scanned files for threats like malware or ransomware. 

"This real-time capability is invaluable, where even the slightest delay in responding to potential threats can result in significant damage, making scanning technology an early warning system for digital vulnerabilities,” he continues. “The Epson WorkForce DS-790WN in the same way isn’t just about scanning; it’s about security. With its ability to scan stored data for potential threats like malware or suspicious activities, businesses gain an added layer of protection. This ensures that both physical and digital risks are addressed simultaneously, preventing data from falling into the wrong hands.”

Additionally, human error remains a significant risk factor when handling sensitive data. Every time an employee deals with paper documents, there's a chance of misplacement, exposure or even complete data loss. By transitioning to secure digital storage solutions, businesses can reduce these risks while improving organisation, compliance and efficiency. 

In the face of rising cybercrime, investing in the right scanning technology is a proactive measure to protect your business's most valuable asset - its data. With advanced features like secure file transfer, high-speed scanning, and real-time threat detection, scanners like the Epson WorkForce DS-790WN offer businesses peace of mind, knowing their data is safe from both physical and digital risks.