Temporary Protections Against “PrintNightmare”

Due to temporary security measures taken to protect UWM computers from a critical threat, new printers cannot be installed on Windows PCs. Computer users are still able print from any printer that is already installed.

On Thursday, July 1st 2021, Microsoft confirmed the presence of a critical vulnerability in Windows. This vulnerability is being referred to as “PrintNightmare.” The vulnerability could allow a remote attacker to compromise a Windows computer through its printing features. At UWM, a temporary security measure was deployed to Windows devices that protects against the vulnerability, but also prevents new printers from being installed. These measures are temporary and will be removed as soon as it is safe to do so.

Update July 7, 2021: The measures that prevented new printers from being installed on Windows computer are being rolled back. Microsoft has released a patch to address the vulnerability without affecting the ability to install new printers. The patch will be installed on UWM Windows computers starting at 10:00pm tonight. A restart may be required after the patch installs.

If you have questions about this change or need any assistance, please contact IT support.