JP2007251843A - Image processor, image processing method, image processing program, and storage medium for storing image processing program - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an image processor, image processing method and image processing program for effectively suppressing illegal printing of confidential documents or the like, and to provide a storage medium for storing the image processing program. <P>SOLUTION: The image processor includes: an identification information acquisition means 61 for acquiring identification information such as information identifying a user, information identifying a group to which the user belongs, and information identifying the image processor; and an illegal printing suppression means 62 which performs printing while overlapping image data meaning the prohibition of illegal printing on image data being illegal printing prohibition object based on the identification information acquired in the identification information acquisition means 61. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2007,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to an image processing apparatus, an image processing method, an image processing program, and a storage medium for storing an image processing program that effectively prevent unauthorized printing of confidential documents and the like.

  In recent years, leakage and unauthorized use of corporate information has become a social problem, and the management system for corporate confidential information has been strengthened. The confidential information in the company includes information on customers, information on new projects and products, etc., and such confidential information is handled in various forms such as paper and electronic data. For this reason, image forming apparatuses (copiers, printers, etc.) and image processing apparatuses (personal computers) used in an office environment are required to have a function for preventing leakage or unauthorized use of confidential information. A function of preventing unauthorized printing of included data is provided (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

One of the functions includes user information for controlling the printing operation for each user. When a user prints a confidential document, the printed document can be managed based on that information. Create image data (watermarks) such as identification symbols, marks, barcodes, character strings, and special symbols, marks, character strings, etc. that prohibit printing, and overlay them on image data of confidential documents (overlay printing) ) And informing the user that printing is prohibited, the administrator later discovers an illegally printed document and suppresses the unauthorized printing of the user (for example, see Patent Document 2). reference.).
JP 2004-118243 A JP 2004-152260 A

  However, in the method of Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2004-152260, the user may not be aware that the document is a confidential document that is prohibited from printing, such as “visually difficult to understand” depending on the content of the print. There is a problem that it cannot be obtained.

  The present invention provides an image processing apparatus, an image processing method, an image processing program, and a storage medium for storing an image processing program that effectively suppress unauthorized printing of confidential documents and the like in view of the above-described problems of the prior art. Objective.

  In order to achieve the above object, an image processing apparatus according to the present invention includes identification information acquisition means for acquiring identification information such as information for identifying a user, information for identifying a group to which the user belongs, and information for identifying an image processing apparatus. And unauthorized printing inhibiting means for performing printing by superimposing image data meaning prohibition of unauthorized printing on image data subject to unauthorized printing based on the identification information acquired by the identification information acquiring means. Can be configured.

  As a result, the image processing apparatus of the present invention can generate print data that suppresses unauthorized printing of confidential documents and the like, including information related to unauthorized printing prohibition.

  In order to achieve the above object, the image processing apparatus of the present invention may be configured to print the image data meaning print prohibition with contents that are visually understandable to the user by the unauthorized printing suppression means. it can.

  As a result, the image processing apparatus of the present invention can visually notify the user that the unauthorized printing of the confidential document has been performed.

  In order to achieve the above object, the image processing apparatus of the present invention prints, as the identification information, predetermined character string information included in the name of the document data, storage location information where the document data is stored, and document data. Output destination information can be included.

  As a result, the image processing apparatus of the present invention can identify document data that is subject to unauthorized printing suppression.

  In order to achieve the above object, the image processing apparatus of the present invention includes a watermark generation unit, and means that printing is prohibited by the watermark generation unit based on the identification information acquired from the identification information acquisition unit. It can be configured to generate image data.

  As a result, the image processing apparatus of the present invention can generate image data that signifies printing prohibition using the existing watermark function.

  In order to achieve the above object, the image processing apparatus according to the present invention uses easy-to-understand colors and fonts for symbols, marks, and character strings used as image data meaning printing prohibition by the unauthorized printing suppression means. Can be configured to perform printing.

  As a result, the image processing apparatus according to the present invention can inform the user that the illegal printing of the confidential document has been performed by using the symbols, marks, and character strings that are not normally used. .

  In order to achieve the above object, the image processing apparatus of the present invention may be configured to print the image data meaning printing prohibition within the maximum drawable range of the paper by the unauthorized printing suppression means. it can.

  As a result, the image processing apparatus according to the present invention prints image data meaning printing prohibition on the entire sheet, thereby notifying the user that the illegal printing of the confidential document or the like has been performed in an easy-to-understand manner. Can do.

  In order to achieve the above object, the image processing apparatus according to the present invention prints the character string used as the image data meaning printing prohibition by using the identification information for identifying the user by the unauthorized printing inhibiting means. It can be constituted as follows.

  As a result, the administrator can track the user who performed unauthorized printing based on the information of the character string for identifying the user.

  In order to achieve the above object, the image processing apparatus of the present invention uses the image processing apparatus used by the user at the time of printing to the character string used as image data meaning printing prohibition by the unauthorized printing suppression unit. It can be configured to print using identification information for identification.

  As a result, the administrator can specify the image processing apparatus used at the time of unauthorized printing based on the information of the character string for identifying the image processing apparatus, and can track the user who performed the printing.

  In order to achieve the above object, the image processing apparatus of the present invention has an unauthorized printing suppression function setting table for setting an unauthorized printing suppression function, and is set in the unauthorized printing suppression function setting table by the unauthorized printing suppression unit. It is possible to configure to perform printing based on the unauthorized printing suppression function.

  As a result, the image processing apparatus of the present invention can control the operation of inhibiting unauthorized printing for each user based on the settings in the unauthorized printing inhibiting function setting table.

  In order to achieve the above object, the image processing apparatus according to the present invention includes the unauthorized printing suppression function setting table including a plurality of entries for each unauthorized printing suppression function setting, and each entry includes an unauthorized printing suppression function. Identification information for identifying the target user and image processing apparatus, predetermined character string information included in the document data name, storage location information where the document data is stored, output destination information where the document data is printed, and Operation condition information for controlling the unauthorized printing suppression function can be included.

  As a result, the administrator can collectively manage each piece of information related to unauthorized printing inhibition, and can easily cope with unauthorized printing inhibition.

  In order to achieve the above object, the image processing apparatus of the present invention further includes a suppression function setting table changing unit that registers and updates the unauthorized printing suppression function setting table. When the administrator is authenticated, the contents of the entry in the unauthorized printing suppression function setting table corresponding to the administrator can be changed.

  As a result, the image processing apparatus of the present invention can prevent unauthorized modification of the unauthorized printing suppression function setting table by the user, and can maintain high confidentiality of management data.

  In order to achieve the above object, the image processing apparatus of the present invention can be configured to be incorporated in a program for registering and updating the unauthorized printing suppression function setting table.

  As a result, the image processing apparatus of the present invention can prevent unauthorized modification of the unauthorized printing suppression function setting table by the user, and can maintain high confidentiality of management data.

  In order to achieve the above object, the image processing apparatus according to the present invention is configured such that, when a management server that manages data exchanged by the image forming apparatus is connected to the image processing apparatus via the network, An unauthorized printing suppression function setting table can be stored in the management server and referred to from an image processing apparatus used by a user via the network when the unauthorized printing suppression means is performed.

  As a result, the image processing apparatus of the present invention can prevent unauthorized modification of the unauthorized printing suppression function setting table by the user, and can maintain high confidentiality of management data.

  In order to achieve the above object, the image processing apparatus of the present invention, when an image forming apparatus is connected to the image processing apparatus via a network, displays the unauthorized printing inhibition function setting table as the image forming apparatus. It can be configured to be stored in a device and referred to from an image processing device used by a user via the network when the unauthorized printing suppression means is performed.

  As a result, the image processing apparatus of the present invention can prevent unauthorized modification of the unauthorized printing suppression function setting table by the user, and can maintain high confidentiality of management data.

  In order to achieve the above object, the image processing apparatus of the present invention can include a display unit, and the display unit can display that the unauthorized printing suppression unit has been performed.

  As a result, the image processing apparatus of the present invention can notify the user that unauthorized printing of a confidential document or the like has been performed.

  In order to achieve the above object, the image processing apparatus of the present invention can be configured to display information relating to the handling of printed print data from the display means.

  As a result, the image processing apparatus of the present invention can inform the user about the handling of text data that has been illegally printed, such as confidential documents.

  In order to achieve the above object, the image processing method of the present invention obtains identification information such as information for identifying a user, information for identifying a group to which the user belongs, and information for identifying an image processing apparatus. An acquisition procedure, and an unauthorized printing suppression procedure for performing printing by superimposing image data meaning prohibition of unauthorized printing on image data to be prohibited from unauthorized printing based on the identification information acquired in the specific information acquisition procedure. Have.

  As a result, the image processing method of the present invention can generate print data that suppresses unauthorized printing of confidential documents and the like, including information related to unauthorized printing prohibition.

  In order to achieve the above object, the image processing program of the present invention obtains identification information such as information for identifying a user, information for identifying a group to which the user belongs, and information for identifying an image processing apparatus. An acquisition unit; and an unauthorized printing suppression unit that performs printing by superimposing image data indicating prohibition of unauthorized printing on image data to be prohibited from unauthorized printing based on the identification information acquired by the specific information acquisition unit. Can be described in a format that can be executed by the image processing apparatus.

  Thus, the image processing program of the present invention can operate the image processing apparatus so as to prevent unauthorized printing of confidential documents and the like.

  In order to achieve the above object, the storage medium of the present invention can be configured to store the image processing program according to claim 18.

  The present invention can provide an image processing apparatus, an image processing method, an image processing program, and a storage medium for storing the image processing program that effectively prevent unauthorized printing of confidential documents and the like.

  DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

  FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of the image processing system according to the first embodiment.

The image processing system shown in FIG. 1 includes image processing apparatuses (including PCs: Personal Computers) 10 and 10n, and image forming apparatuses 20 and 20n (including "printers" and "copiers"). Area network), are connected to the network 40 such as public line and a radio network, the image processing apparatus 10 _1, the image forming apparatus 20 _1, it is possible to transmit the print data via the network 40, transmission the print data can be printed from the image forming apparatus 20 _1.

Therefore, in the present invention, if the document data of the unauthorized printing prohibited such confidential document is printed by the user, in the image processing apparatus 10 _1, image data (watermark adds information indicating unauthorized printing prohibition ) generates print data including, by transmitting to the image forming apparatus 20 _1, from print result printed from the image forming apparatus 20 _1, to the user performing the printing, document data is printed-inhibited It is to inform that it is.

Figure 2 is a diagram showing the arrangement of an image processing apparatus 10 ₁ and the image forming apparatus 20 ₁ according to the first embodiment.

The image processing apparatus 10 ₁ in FIG. 2, an application 11, a spooler 12, a communication unit 13, the printer driver 14, and a bad print suppression function setting table 50.

The application 11 is software that creates or edits document data. Further, the user, by the application 11, open the document data to be printed, from the print function of the application 11 is provided to select the image forming apparatus 20 ₁ to be printed, you press the print button on the screen (print request) that is to , it is possible to print the document data from the image forming apparatus 20 ₁ is specified.

The spooler 12 temporarily holds a print command (hereinafter referred to as a drawing command) from the application 11. Further, the spooler 12, the held drawing command, the image forming apparatus 20 ₁ is printed executable instructions (hereinafter, PDL:. Page say Description Language) instructing to convert to perform to the printer driver 14 to be described later, then, A command converted by the printer driver 14 is received and sent as print data to a communication unit described later.

  The communication unit 13 is a network I / F and includes communication devices (including “image processing apparatuses 10 and 10n” and “image forming apparatus 20”) on the network 40 such as a LAN, a public line, and a wireless line. Is a communication interface for exchanging print data, information on a print job, and the like by two-way communication. Therefore, the print data sent from the spooler 12 is sent to the network 40 under the control of the communication unit 13.

  The printer driver 14 includes a user I / F unit (hereinafter referred to as a UI unit: User I / F unit) 141, an identification information acquisition unit 142, a watermark generation unit 143, and a rendering unit 144.

When the printer driver 14 receives a print request from the application 11, the printer driver 14 sends the data format that can be handled by the printer driver 14 and information about processing that can be handled by the printer driver 14 to the application 11, and print data that can be printed (raster image). To check whether it can be processed. As a result, if it is determined that printing is possible, GDI (Graphics Device Interface: Windows (registered trademark) for rendering lines, circles, polygons, text, etc.) necessary to represent print data (raster data) Standard function) Code commands and generate journal files. When the generation of the journal file is completed, preparation for creating print data is completed, and the application 11 is released. (Even to terminate the application 11 can print.) Next, read the journal file, generates print data (raster data), sent to the image forming apparatus 20 _1, printing is started.

UI section 141, if the user performs the printing of document data is the user interface to set the paper size and paper feed tray such as an image forming apparatus 20 ₁ operating conditions, the printing image conditions such as resolution, color mode .

Identification information acquisition unit 142, the user to be printed, the group which the user belongs, the user environment information about the image forming apparatus 20 ₁ is a user image processing apparatus 10 1 is _used, the document data and the output destination printing (Including “user name”, “group name”, “machine name”, “document data name”, “document storage location”, “output destination”, etc.). In addition, the identification information acquisition unit 142 determines from the unauthorized printing suppression function setting table 50 that the user registered as the unauthorized printing prohibition target, the group to which the user belongs, the image processing apparatus 10 ₁ used by the user, and the user document data and the output destination of the image forming apparatus 20 ₁ related to identification information for printing (of unauthorized printing prohibited "user name", "group name", "machine name", "document data name", "document storage location", " Output destination ”etc.).

  The watermark generation unit 143 generates image data of a symbol, a mark, and a character string specified by a user, and superimposes the original document image data to form one image data. In the function, in accordance with the watermark drawing setting (including the watermark drawing content and drawing position) of the unauthorized printing suppression function determined based on the identification information of the unauthorized printing prohibition target acquired by the identification information acquisition unit 142. Then, image data meaning prohibition of illegal printing is generated and superimposed on the original document image data to form one image data.

The rendering unit 144 reads a drawing command from the application 11 held in the spooler 12 in accordance with an instruction for decoding the drawing command from the spooler 12, and after drawing the command, draws an object such as a character string or a bitmap. converted into PDL is drawing instruction code for 20 _1, and generates the print data (raster data). Further, the printer driver 14 sends the converted print data (raster data) to the spooler 12 again while generating the print data in the rendering unit 144.

  The rendering unit 144 generates print data by using StartDoc / EndDoc indicating the start / start of the document, StartPage / EndPage indicating the start / end of the page, TextOut indicating the drawing of the character string, and drawing the bitmap file. PDL conversion is performed for drawing commands such as BitBlt indicating the color and SetColor indicating the color designation of each object, and print data is generated.

The unauthorized printing suppression function setting table 50 includes a user registered as an unauthorized printing prohibition target, a group to which the user belongs, an image processing apparatus 10 ₁ used by the user, document data printed by the user, and an output destination image. identification information for identifying the forming device 20 ₁ is constituted by the operating condition setting information for controlling the unauthorized printing suppression function, the printer driver 14 is the data read in performing unauthorized printing suppression function . The unauthorized printing suppression function setting table 50 has access rights set based on a management system (security policy) for confidential information that is a user environment, and users other than the administrator can access from the printer driver 14. Only read access is allowed.

The image forming apparatus 20 ₁ in FIG. 2, a communication unit 21, the control unit 22, a main storage unit 23, an auxiliary storage unit 24, printing unit 25.

  The communication unit 21 is a network I / F and includes communication devices (including “image processing apparatuses 10 and 10n” and “image forming apparatus 20”) on the network 40 such as a LAN, a public line, and a wireless line. Is a communication interface for exchanging print data, information on a print job, and the like by two-way communication. Therefore, the print data sent via the network 40 is received under the control of the communication unit 21.

Control unit 22, CPU includes (Central Processing Unit) and an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), and executes the program for realizing the functions of the image forming apparatus 20 _1, the image forming apparatus 20 ₁ through the system bus This is for controlling the overall operation.

  The main storage unit 23 includes a ROM (Read Only Memory) and a RAM (Random Access Memory), stores an image processing program executed by the control unit 22 in the ROM, and stores the image stored in the ROM when the image processing program is executed. The processing program is temporarily stored in the RAM, and data used in the image processing program is temporarily stored in the RAM.

The auxiliary storage unit 24, a hard disk (Hard Disk) is a storage medium such as, image data read by the image forming apparatus 20 _1, printed picture image (raster image which is expanded by a printer application where the image forming apparatus 20 ₁ has ) And the like.

  The printing unit 25 forms an image from the print information, a paper feeding cassette unit that stores various sizes of paper, a paper feeding conveyance unit that takes out the paper stored in the paper feeding cassette unit and feeds the paper to the image forming unit. An image forming unit that prints (transfers and fixes) on paper, a paper discharge unit that discharges the printed paper onto a paper discharge tray, a drive unit that drives the above-described units, and drive control of the drive unit A plotter that prints on a sheet by an image processing program executed by the control unit 22. Therefore, when print data is received from the communication unit 21, it is automatically determined in which PDL the print data is described, and the corresponding printer application stored in the ROM is started by the control unit 22, and then The print data is processed by the printer application, a print image is formed, and is printed on the paper by the printing unit 25.

As described above, in the unauthorized printing suppression function, the document data instructed to be printed is sent from the application 11 to the spooler 12 as a drawing command, and the printer driver 14 follows the instruction decoding instruction from the spooler 12, group which the user belongs, the image processing apparatus 10 1 used _by a _user, it is determined whether the user is a document data and the output destination of the image forming apparatus 20 ₁ to be printed, the result in unauthorized printing-inhibited If there is, the watermark generation unit 143 renders the image data indicating that the unauthorized printing is prohibited in accordance with the watermark drawing setting that is the operation condition setting information for controlling the unauthorized printing inhibiting function in the unauthorized printing inhibiting function setting table 50. Is superimposed on the original document image data PDL-converted by the unit 144 and is generated as one image data. This is realized by being transmitted as print data from the communication unit 13.

  FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of a main part according to the first embodiment.

  The configuration in FIG. 3 is divided into an identification information acquisition unit 61, an unauthorized printing suppression unit 62, and a suppression function setting table change unit 63.

Identification information acquiring unit 61, the user to be printed, the group which the user belongs, the user environment information about the image forming apparatus 20 ₁ is a user image processing apparatus 10 1 is _used, the document data and the output destination printing From the unauthorized printing suppression function setting table 50, the user registered as the unauthorized printing prohibition target, the group to which the user belongs, the image processing apparatus 10 ₁ used by the user, and the document data printed by the user and it is intended to acquire identification information about the output destination of the image forming apparatus 20 ₁ is performed by the identification information acquisition unit 142 of the printer driver 14 of the image processing apparatus 10 ₁ is provided.

The identification information acquiring unit 61, the user to be printed, the group which the user belongs, the image processing apparatus 10 1 used by a _user, the user relates to an image forming apparatus 20 ₁ is a document data and the output destination printing the environment information is acquired from the information concerning the document data from the system information and applications 11 that the image processing apparatus 10 ₁ has.

Further, the identification information acquisition unit 61 also includes the user registered as the unauthorized printing prohibition target, the group to which the user belongs, the image processing apparatus 10 ₁ used by the user, the user, from the unauthorized printing inhibition function setting table 50. There identifying information about the image forming apparatus 20 ₁ of the document data and the output destination for printing is acquired from unauthorized printing suppression function setting table 50.

  Details of the unauthorized printing suppression function setting table 50 are shown in the example of FIG.

The unauthorized printing suppression function setting table 50 includes a plurality of entries (rows in the table) for each unauthorized printing suppression function setting, and each entry includes a user to whom unauthorized printing is prohibited, a group to which the user belongs, identification information for identifying the image processing apparatus 10 ₁ a user uses the identification information for identifying the image forming apparatus 20 ₁ of the document data and the output destination of the unauthorized printing prohibited, for controlling the unauthorized printing suppression function The operation condition information is included.

User who become unauthorized printing prohibited in the entry, identification information for the user to identify the image processing apparatus 10 ₁ group and user uses belongs, the user name is incorrect printing prohibited (e.g., "Suzuki "," Tanaka ", and the like.), the group name (e.g.," Group1 "," Group2 "and the like.) and the image processing apparatus 10 ₁ a is machine name (e.g.," PC-1 "," PC-2 "and the like. ). Moreover, identification information for identifying the image forming apparatus 20 ₁ of the unauthorized printing prohibited document data and destination entry are predetermined character string included in the document data name (e.g., "* confidential *", " * Top Secret * ", etc.), a predetermined character string (for example," * Confidential * "," * Secret * ", etc.) included in the name of the storage location where the document data is stored, and an image on which the document data is printed forming device 20 ₁ of the IP address (e.g., "123.456.789.100", "123.456.789.101", and the like.) is.

  The operating condition information for controlling the unauthorized printing suppression function in the entry includes watermark drawing setting information for generating image data meaning unauthorized printing prohibition, a warning for unauthorized printing using a display display, warning light, etc. Includes additional warning setting information to do.

  The watermark drawing setting information of the operation condition information for controlling the unauthorized printing suppression function includes a symbol, a mark, a character string, and the like indicating prohibition of unauthorized printing shown in FIG. 4B in the printable area of the paper. Drawing area setting (for example, “CENTER”, “ALL”, “TOP”, etc.) for controlling which area to draw, symbol, mark, and character string meaning prohibition of illegal printing shown in FIG. Drawing data setting (for example, “UID: User ID”, “MID: Machine ID”, “UNAME: User Name”, etc.) A drawing effect setting (for example, “BOLD”, “LARGE”, “RED”, etc.) for designating a visual effect when a mark, a character string, or the like is drawn. Further, the additional warning method setting information of the operation condition information for controlling the illegal printing suppression function is an additional warning for warning against illegal printing using a display display, a warning light, or the like shown in FIG. Method setting information (for example, “Dev”, “Disp”, “Ctn”, “Info”, etc.), and display device information (for example, “Dev”, “Disp”, etc.) for designating a device to be displayed), It is composed of warning content information (for example, “Ctn”, “Info”, etc.) that is a warning content to be displayed.

  The configuration of the unauthorized printing suppression function setting table 50 shown in FIGS. 4A to 4E can be changed by a suppression function setting table changing unit to be described later, and the management system (security) for confidential information that is a user environment Based on the policy), the table can be designed and each item can be set.

Also, unauthorized printing suppression function setting table 50, the user of the unauthorized printing prohibited in the entry, the set value of the identification information for the user to identify the image processing apparatus 10 ₁ to use the group and the user belongs It is possible to set '*' (asterisk). When set by user name, all users are targeted. When set by group name, all groups are targeted and set by machine name. the sense that all of the image forming apparatus 20 ₁ becomes the target: a (wildcard arbitrary length of the string), when the '*' on either side of a particular string is added (e.g., "* “Confidential *” etc.) means that all character strings including a specific character string (“confidential”) are applicable.

Also, unauthorized printing suppression function setting table 50, the user of the unauthorized printing prohibited in the entry, identification information and document data for the user to identify the image processing apparatus 10 ₁ group and user uses belongs and identification information for identifying the image forming apparatus 20 _first output destination, unauthorized printing suppression function operating condition is associated with information for controlling, unauthorized printing prohibited users or the image processing apparatus 10 ₁ and documents When an entry including data is selected, the unauthorized printing suppression function can be executed based on the operation condition information for controlling the unauthorized printing suppression function associated with the identification information in the entry.

  The entry of the unauthorized printing suppression function setting table 50 is added with an ID number indicating the priority order for executing the unauthorized printing suppression function (numbers are added in order from 1), and identification information for identifying the unauthorized printing inhibition target. Therefore, when multiple entries are selected as candidates for unauthorized printing prohibition, there is a rule for executing the unauthorized printing suppression function based on the operating condition information for controlling the unauthorized printing suppression function for entries with a small ID number. ing.

The unauthorized printing suppression unit 62 selects an unauthorized printing prohibition target entry based on the identification information for identifying the unauthorized printing prohibition target acquired by the identification information acquisition unit 61, and controls the unauthorized printing suppression function in the selected entry. in accordance with the operating conditions for, which executes the unauthorized printing suppression function is mainly carried out in the watermark generator 143 and a rendering unit 144 of the printer driver 14 of the image processing apparatus 10 ₁ it is provided.

In addition, the unauthorized printing suppression unit 62 includes two determination processes for determining an operation condition for controlling the unauthorized printing suppression function. One user to be printed, the group and the image processing apparatus 10 _1, it is determined whether the unauthorized use of the printing-inhibited, the group and the image processing apparatus 10 _1, unauthorized printing suppression function setting table A corresponding entry is selected from 50 (first identification determination). Second, the document data and the image forming apparatus 20 ₁ are trying to print, it is determined whether the document data and the image forming apparatus 20 ₁ illegal prohibited, is selected based on the first determination Determine the operating conditions for controlling the unauthorized printing suppression function in the entry (second identification determination).

First, unauthorized printing suppression means 62, the user environment information about the user and the image processing apparatus 10 ₁ and the like to be printed is acquired by the identification information acquiring unit 61, from the entry of unauthorized printing suppression function setting table 50 compared to acquired unauthorized printing prohibited users or the image processing apparatus 10 ₁ such identifying information about the, relevant user, it determines whether there is an entry including the group and the image processing apparatus 10 ₁ (first Identification). As a result, the relevant user, if there is an entry including the group and the image processing apparatus 10 _1, user environment information relating to document data or the image forming apparatus 20 ₁ and the like to be printed is acquired by the identification information acquiring unit 61 and compared to the relevant document data and the image forming apparatus 20 ₁ about the identification information in the entry, the document data and the image forming apparatus 20 ₁ is set to be printed is determined whether the unauthorized printing prohibited (second Identification). As a result, if the document data and the image forming apparatus 20 ₁ is unauthorized printing prohibited are trying to print, in accordance with the watermark drawing setting an operation condition for controlling the unauthorized printing function for suppressing the entry means unauthorized printing prohibition It generates print data containing a watermark to the print data sent to the image forming apparatus 20 _1.

  Hereinafter, an example of the unauthorized printing suppression unit 62 will be described using the configuration example of the unauthorized printing suppression function setting table 50 in FIG.

For example, when a user Suzuki belonging to Group 1 prints document data using PC-2, the user, group, and image processing apparatus 10 ₁ subject to the unauthorized printing suppression function setting table 50 in the unauthorized printing suppression function setting table 50. Based on the identification information, ID2, ID3, and ID6 are selected as corresponding entries (first identification determination). Next, if the document data that user Suzuki tries to print is data in the Confidential folder, the ID2 entry is selected based on the identification information related to the document data in the corresponding ID2, ID3, and ID6 entries. (Second identification determination) In accordance with the watermark drawing setting in the ID2 entry, the unauthorized printing suppression means 62 has printed the user ID of user Suzuki in bold (BOLD) in the center of the print area of the paper. Print data is generated. Also, user Suzuki is, if you try to print the document data to the image forming apparatus 20 ₁ which is set to the IP address of 123.456.789.100, an image forming apparatus 20 ₁ in each entry of the relevant ID2, ID3, ID6 Based on the identification information, the entry of ID3 is selected (second identification determination), and the unauthorized printing suppression means 62 follows the watermark drawing setting in the entry of ID3, and the user's Suzuki Machine ID and User Name are Print data printed in red bold (RED, BOLD) in the entire print area is generated.

Unauthorized printing suppression means 62 in accordance with the watermark drawing setting associated with the identification information about the user and the image processing apparatus 10 ₁ and the like of the unauthorized printing suppression function object, generates print data containing a watermark, which means unauthorized printing prohibition To do. According to the method, the watermark generation unit 143 performs PDL conversion of image data indicating that unauthorized printing is prohibited in accordance with the watermark drawing setting which is an operation condition for controlling the unauthorized printing suppression function. This is realized by superimposing on document image data and generating as one image data.

Also, unauthorized printing suppression means 62 transmits the print data to the image forming apparatus 20 _1. The method, print data generated by the rendering unit 144 of the printer driver 14 is returned to the spooler 12, then the control of the communication unit 13 via the network 40, by being sent to the image forming apparatus 20 ₁ Realized.

  The suppression function setting table changing unit 63 changes the suppression function setting in the unauthorized printing suppression function setting table 50.

  Unlike the identification information acquisition unit 61 and the unauthorized printing suppression unit 62, the suppression function setting table changing unit 63 is not performed when the unauthorized printing suppression function is executed in the printer driver 14. If changes are needed, they will be done.

Inhibit the function setting table change unit 63, since the administrator is associated with possible access right change for each entry of unauthorized printing suppression function setting table 50, the image processing apparatus 10 ₁ authenticates the administrator login Can be changed, the setting contents of the associated entry can be changed.

  In addition, the suppression function setting table changing means 63 may be a method in which the unauthorized printing suppression function setting table 50 is modularized and embedded in the suppression function setting table change program to change the suppression function setting table.

Thus, unauthorized printing suppression function is obtained by identification information obtaining unit 61, the user environment information about the user and the image processing apparatus 10 ₁ and the like to be printed, each of the unauthorized printing suppression function setting table 50 compared with identifying information about the user and the image processing apparatus 10 ₁ and the like of the unauthorized printing prohibited acquired from an entry, the corresponding user, determines whether there is an entry including the group and the image processing apparatus 10 ₁ (first 1 identification judgment). As a result, the relevant user, if there is an entry including the group and the image processing apparatus 10 _1, the identification information acquired by the acquisition unit 61, a user environment related to the document data and the image forming apparatus 20 ₁ and the like to be printed information, compared to the applicable document data and the image forming apparatus 20 ₁ about the identification information in the entry, the document data and the image forming apparatus 20 ₁ is set to be printed is determined whether the unauthorized printing prohibited (the 2 identification judgment). As a result, when it and to have the document data and the image forming apparatus 20 ₁ is unauthorized printing prohibited to print in accordance with the watermark drawing setting an operation condition for controlling the unauthorized printing function for suppressing the entry, the watermark generator 143 Is generated as one piece of image data by superimposing the image data on the basis of PDL conversion by the rendering unit 144 as one image data, and the print data generated by the rendering unit 144 is the spooler 12. returned to, then, under the control of the communication unit 13 via the network 40, the print data to the image forming apparatus 20 ₁ is sent to the image forming apparatus 20 ₁ is implemented by being sent.

  FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating the flow of the unauthorized printing suppression function according to the first embodiment.

5, by the application 11, open the document data to be printed, from the print function of the application 11 is provided to select the image forming apparatus 20 ₁ to be printed, by pressing the print button on the screen, the specified image forming apparatus when printing the document data from the 20 _1, the printer driver 14, which indicates whether unauthorized printing suppression function how they are executed.

First, the printer driver 14 from the UI unit 141, is set by the user when printing the document data, paper size and paper feed tray such as an image forming apparatus 20 ₁ operating conditions, printing, such as resolution, color mode The setting value of the image condition is acquired (S101).

Next, the printer driver 14 determines whether the user has pressed the print button or the cancel button (S102). When the cancel button is pressed (S102 is NO), the printer driver 14 ends the printing process. Further, when the print button is pressed (S102 is YES), the identification information acquiring unit 61, it and to have user or the image processing apparatus 10 1 to _print, the user environment information relating to the document data and the image forming apparatus 20 _1, etc. , acquired from the information on the document data from the system information and applications 11 of the image processing apparatus 10 ₁ and the like (S103), unauthorized printing prohibited that are registered user or an image processing apparatus as a target 10 _1, document data and image forming apparatus identifying information about 20 ₁ or the like, obtained from unauthorized printing suppression function setting table 50 (S104).

Next, the printer driver 14 selects the entry corresponding to the unauthorized printing prohibition target based on the identification information acquired from the identification information acquisition unit 61 by the unauthorized printing suppression unit 62, and activates the unauthorized printing suppression function in the entry. according to the operation condition setting for controlling, it generates print data and transmits the print data to the designated image forming apparatus 20 ₁ from the user by the UI unit 141 (S105).

  As described above, the unauthorized printing suppression function is an image indicating printing inhibition generated by the printer driver 14 having the identification information acquisition unit 61 and the unauthorized printing suppression unit 62 according to the operation condition setting for controlling the unauthorized printing suppression function. This is realized by generating print data including data.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating processing relating to identification determination of the unauthorized printing prohibited user, the image processing apparatus 101, and the like according to the _first embodiment.

6, unauthorized printing inhibition means 62 has been acquired by the identification information acquiring unit 61, the user environment information about the user and the image processing apparatus 10 ₁ and the like to be printed, the unauthorized printing suppression function setting table 50 compared with identifying information about the user and the image processing apparatus 10 ₁ and the like of the unauthorized printing prohibited acquired from each entry, and determines whether there is an entry comprising appropriate user, the group and the image processing apparatus 10 _1, The process of selecting an entry including an operation condition for controlling the unauthorized printing suppression function from the unauthorized printing suppression function setting table 50 is shown.

First, unauthorized printing inhibition means 62 has been acquired by the identification information acquiring unit 61, the user environment information about the user and the image processing apparatus 10 ₁ and the like to be printed, each entry of unauthorized printing suppression function setting table 50 compared to acquired unauthorized printing prohibited users or the image processing apparatus 10 ₁ concerning the identification information from the corresponding user, it determines whether there is an entry including the group and the image processing apparatus 10 ₁ (S201) . If there is no entry that contains relevant user, the group and the image processing apparatus 10 ₁ (S201 is NO), it is determined that unauthorized printing prohibited outside without unauthorized printing suppression function performs existing printing process (S202) . Also, appropriate user, group, and the image processing apparatus 10 when there is an entry containing ₁ (S201 is YES), the relevant user, including group and the image processing apparatus 10 _1, a plurality or one entry selected (S203), based on the identification information about the document data and the image forming apparatus 20 ₁ user is trying to print, to determine the operating conditions for controlling the unauthorized printing suppression function (S204).

Thus, unauthorized printing suppression means 62, the user to be printed, the group and the image processing apparatus 10 ₁ judges whether the unauthorized printing prohibited, the operating conditions for controlling the unauthorized printing suppression function Can be selected as an entry in the unauthorized printing suppression function setting table 50.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating processing relating to identification determination of document data to be prohibited from unauthorized printing and the image forming apparatus 201 according to the _first embodiment.

Figure 7 is a process of module executed in S204 of FIG. 6, unauthorized printing inhibition means 62 has been acquired by the identification information acquiring unit 61, to the document data and the image forming apparatus 20 ₁ and the like to be printed the user environment information, whether or not the document data and compared with the identification information on the image forming apparatus 20 _1, the document data are trying to print and the image forming apparatus 20 ₁ in the selected entry is invalid print-inhibited The process of determining and finally determining the operation condition for controlling the unauthorized printing suppression function from the entry selected as a candidate is shown.

  First, the unauthorized printing suppression means 62 determines whether or not identification information related to the document data name such as “* confidential *” is set in the selected entry (S301). When the identification information is set (YES in S301), the character string of the document data name to be printed is acquired (S302), and the document data to be illegally printed prohibited is identified in the acquired character string “*”. It is determined whether or not a character string such as “confidential *” is included (S303). When a character string such as “* confidential *” for identifying document data to be prohibited from unauthorized printing is not included (NO in S303), the document data that the user is trying to print is not document data to be unauthorized printing prohibited. It is determined that the operation condition for controlling the unauthorized printing suppression function is undecided. When the operating condition is not yet determined, normal printing processing is executed without generating the image data indicating prohibition of unauthorized printing by the watermark generation unit 143 performed thereafter.

  Further, the unauthorized printing suppression means 62 determines that the identification information relating to the document data name such as “* confidential *” is not set in the selected entry (NO in S301) or the name of the document data to be printed. If the character string includes a character string such as “* confidential *” that identifies document data to be prohibited from unauthorized printing (S303: YES), a document such as “* Confidential *” is included in the selected entry. It is determined whether or not identification information related to the data storage location is set (S304). If the identification information is set (YES in S304), a character string indicating the location where the document data to be printed is stored is acquired (S305), and the illegal printing prohibited document is included in the acquired character string. It is determined whether or not a character string such as “* Confidential *” for identifying data is included (S306). When a character string such as “* Confidential *” for identifying document data to be prohibited from unauthorized printing is not included (NO in S306), the document data that the user is trying to print is not document data to be unauthorized printing prohibited. It is determined that the operation condition for controlling the unauthorized printing suppression function is undecided. When the operating condition is not yet determined, normal printing processing is executed without generating the image data indicating prohibition of unauthorized printing by the watermark generation unit 143 performed thereafter.

Further, the unauthorized printing suppression means 62 stores the document data to be printed when identification information relating to the document data name such as “* Confidential *” is not set in the selected entry (S304 is NO). When a character string such as “* Confidential *” for identifying the document data to be prohibited from unauthorized printing is included in the character string indicating the location that has been printed (YES in S306), the output destination is included in the selected entry. the image forming apparatus 20 ₁ related to identification information is (IP address) determines whether it is set (S307). When the identification information is set (YES in S307), the user obtains the output destination IP address set by the UI unit 141 (S308), and the obtained IP address and the image forming apparatus 20 subject to unauthorized printing prohibition. _It is determined whether or not the IP addresses identifying ₁ match (S309). If the IP address identifying the image forming apparatus 20 ₁ of unauthorized printing prohibited do not match (S309 is NO), the user attempting to print is the image forming apparatus 20 ₁ is not the image forming apparatus 20 ₁ of unauthorized printing-inhibited It is determined that the operation condition for controlling the unauthorized printing suppression function is undecided. When the operating condition is not yet determined, normal printing processing is executed without generating the image data indicating prohibition of unauthorized printing by the watermark generation unit 143 performed thereafter.

Also, unauthorized printing suppression means 62 in the selected entry, if the identification information on the image forming apparatus 20 ₁ is output destination is not set (S307 is NO), or the user has set in the UI section 141 If the IP address and the unauthorized printing prohibited IP address identifying the image forming apparatus 20 _one target destination match (S309 is YES), the document data and the image forming apparatus 20 ₁ is set to be printed is in unauthorized printing-inhibited The final operation condition is determined based on the operation condition setting for controlling the unauthorized printing suppression function in the selected entry. As a result, the watermark generation unit 143 to be performed thereafter generates image data meaning that illegal printing is prohibited in accordance with the operation condition for controlling the illegal printing suppression function finally determined.

  Further, when a plurality of entries are selected, the unauthorized printing suppression unit 62 repeatedly executes the process of FIG. 7 according to the ID number indicating the priority order for executing the unauthorized printing suppression function, thereby obtaining the final unauthorized printing. If the operating condition for controlling the suppression function is determined and repeatedly executed, if the corresponding entry cannot be selected, the final operating condition is not determined. When the operating condition is not yet determined, normal printing processing is executed without generating the image data indicating prohibition of unauthorized printing by the watermark generation unit 143 performed thereafter.

Thus, unauthorized printing suppression means 62, the document data and the image forming apparatus 20 ₁ are trying to print, it is determined whether the unauthorized printing prohibited, the operating conditions for controlling the unauthorized printing suppression function Can be determined.

  FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating the rendering process of the unauthorized printing suppression function according to the first embodiment.

  FIG. 8 shows that the unauthorized printing suppression means 62 having the watermark generation unit 143 and the rendering unit 144 performs unauthorized printing based on whether or not an operating condition (watermark drawing setting) for controlling the unauthorized printing suppression function is determined. It shows a process of generating print data for the suppression function.

  Whether the unauthorized printing suppression unit 62 generates the watermark of the unauthorized printing suppression function based on the determination result of whether the watermark drawing setting, which is an operation condition for controlling the unauthorized printing suppression function, is determined. Is determined (S401). When the watermark generation of the unauthorized printing suppression function is performed (YES in S401), the watermark drawing setting in the entry finally selected from the unauthorized printing suppression function setting table 50 is performed as preprocessing of the watermark generation unit 143. Obtained (S402), and in accordance with the obtained watermark drawing setting, image data signifying unauthorized printing prohibition is generated (S403). Further, when the watermark generation of the unauthorized printing suppression function is not performed (NO in S401), the watermark drawing setting in the entry finally selected from the unauthorized printing suppression function setting table 50 is not acquired.

  Next, the unauthorized printing suppression means 62 reads the drawing command from the application 11 held in the spooler 12 by the rendering unit 144 in accordance with the drawing command decoding instruction from the spooler 12, and after decoding the command, the character string or bit Converts an object such as a map into PDL to draw and generates print data.

  First, the unauthorized printing suppression unit 62 starts generating print data of a document corresponding to the drawing command StartDoc (S404), and starts generating print data for one page corresponding to the drawing command StartPage (S405). Next, object drawing such as a character string or a bitmap corresponding to the drawing command TextOut / BitBlt is performed (S406), and a color used for drawing each object corresponding to the drawing command SetColor is specified (S407).

  Next, the unauthorized printing suppression unit 62 generates the watermark for the unauthorized printing suppression function again based on the determination result of whether or not the watermark drawing setting that is the operation condition for controlling the unauthorized printing suppression function is determined. It is determined whether or not to perform (S408). When generating the watermark of the unauthorized printing suppression function (YES in S408), the unauthorized printing generated in S403 is performed as a pre-processing of the watermark generating unit 143 at the end of generation of print data for one page corresponding to the rendering command EndPage. One piece of image data is generated by superimposing the image data indicating the prohibition on the image data of the document data drawn in S406 and S407 (S409). An example of the generated image data is shown in FIG. FIG. 9 shows a case where the watermark drawing setting is the drawing area “ALL”, the drawing data “UNAME, MID”, and the drawing effect “BOLD”. If the watermark for the illegal printing suppression function is not generated (NO in S408), the generation of print data for one page corresponding to the rendering command EndPage is terminated (S410).

  Next, the unauthorized printing suppression unit 62 determines whether the generated print data for one page is the print data of the last page of the document (S411). If the generated print data for one page is the last page (YES in S411), the print data generation for the document corresponding to the rendering command EndDoc is terminated (S412). If the generated print data for one page is not the last page (NO in S411), the process returns to S405 to start generating print data for the next page.

  As described above, the unauthorized printing suppression unit 62 uses the watermark generation unit 143 and the rendering unit 144 to use information indicating printing prohibition based on the watermark drawing setting which is an operation condition for controlling the unauthorized printing suppression function. Can be visually informed.

As described above, according to the first embodiment, as the first identification determined, the user environment information about the user and the image processing apparatus 10 ₁ and the like to be printed is acquired by the identification information acquiring unit 61, unauthorized compared with identifying information about the user and the image processing apparatus 10 ₁ and the like of the unauthorized printing prohibited obtained from each entry of printing suppression function setting table 50, the corresponding user, an entry including the group and the image processing apparatus 10 ₁ The entry including the operation condition for controlling the unauthorized printing suppression function is selected from the unauthorized printing suppression function setting table 50, and is acquired by the identification information acquisition unit 61 as the second identification determination. and the user environment information relating to document data or the image forming apparatus 20 ₁ and the like to be printed, the document data and the image in the selected entry Compared to identifying information about deposition device 20 _1, will the to have the document data and the image forming apparatus 20 ₁ to print it is determined whether the unauthorized printing prohibited, controls the unauthorized printing suppression function from the selected entry as a candidate In accordance with the watermark drawing setting that is the final operation condition for controlling the determined unauthorized printing suppression function, the watermark generation unit 143 renders image data that indicates unauthorized printing prohibition. The print data generated by the rendering unit 144 is returned to the spooler 12 after being superposed on the document image data that has been PDL-converted by the unit 144, and then returned to the spooler 12, and then controlled by the communication unit 13 , via the network 40, that print data to the image forming apparatus 20 ₁ is sent, at the user environment That the information indicating the printing prohibition based on the management system for confidential information (security policy), it is realized that inform easier to understand visually to the user. In addition, the administrator can track and discover the user who has performed unauthorized printing from the printing result by the unauthorized printing suppression function.

Example 2, the unauthorized printing suppression function setting table 50, and stored in the auxiliary storage device of a hard disk or the like by the image forming apparatus 20 ₂ is provided, which realizes the unauthorized printing suppression function.

Storing in the first embodiment, the unauthorized printing suppression function setting table 50, but there were those stored in the auxiliary storage device such as a hard disk image processing apparatus 10 ₂ is provided, in the second embodiment, the unauthorized printing suppression function setting table 50 from the image processing apparatus 10 ₂ which is not one in which the confidential document data considering when printed by the image forming apparatus 20 _2.

Therefore, the difference between the first embodiment and the second embodiment is only the difference in the storage destination of the unauthorized printing suppression function setting table 50 shown in FIG. Therefore, in the following description of the second embodiment, the configuration example of the image processing system in FIG. 1, the configuration example of the main part in FIG. 3, the configuration example of the unauthorized printing suppression function setting table 50 in FIG. 4, and the unauthorized printing suppression in FIG. function of the flow, unauthorized printing prohibited users in FIG. 6, the processing relating to the identification decision, such as the image processing apparatus 10 _2, the process relating to the identification judgment of the document data and the image forming apparatus 20 ₂ of unauthorized printing prohibited in FIGS. 7, FIG. 1 and FIGS. 3 to 9 are used because the drawing process of the unauthorized printing suppression function 8 and the example of the printing result of the unauthorized printing suppression function of FIG. 9 have the same configuration, processing flow, and printing result as in the first embodiment. Accordingly, the same components are denoted by the same reference numerals and description thereof is omitted.

Figure 10 is a diagram showing the arrangement of an image processing apparatus 10 ₂ and the image forming apparatus 20 ₂ according to the second embodiment.

The image processing apparatus 10 ₂ in FIG. 10, an application 11, a spooler 12, a communication unit 13, and a printer driver 14. In addition, the application 11, the spooler 12, the communication unit 13, and the printer driver 14 are the same as the configuration example described in FIG. 2 of the first embodiment. Is omitted.

The image forming apparatus 20 ₂ in FIG. 10, a communication unit 21, the control unit 22, a main storage unit 23, printing unit 25. In addition, the communication unit 21, the control unit 22, the main storage unit 23, and the printing unit 25 are the same as the configuration example described in FIG. 2 of the first embodiment. Therefore, the description is omitted.

The image forming apparatus 20 an auxiliary storage unit _{24 2} is provided in FIG. 10 has a function has been described in FIG. 2 of Example 1, are stored unauthorized printing suppression function setting table 50. The storage location where the unauthorized printing suppression function setting table 50 is stored is in a specific shared folder based on a management system (security policy) for confidential information that is a user environment.

Also, unauthorized printing suppression function setting table 50 stored in the auxiliary storage unit 24 by the image forming apparatus 20 ₂ is provided on the basis of the control system (security policy) for confidential information is a user environment, access is set In addition, the user other than the administrator is allowed only read access from the printer driver 14.

Therefore, takes place in a unauthorized printing suppression function, unauthorized printing prohibited users in FIG. 6, the processing relating to the identification decision, such as the image processing apparatus 10 _2, the document data and the image forming apparatus of unauthorized printing prohibited in FIG 20 processing related _second identification decision, the drawing process of unauthorized printing function for suppressing FIG 8, a method of referring to the unauthorized printing suppression function setting table 50, the printer driver 14, the information acquisition function to an image forming apparatus 20 ₂ (status monitor) two-way communication functions of to realize, and is realized by using the file sharing function of the image forming apparatus 20 ₂ has.

First, the printer driver 14, if the image processing apparatus 10 unauthorized printing suppression function setting table 50 into _two operating not stored, via the network 40, the user image forming apparatus designated as the output destination 20 _2, A control command for referring to the unauthorized printing suppression function setting table 50 is transmitted. The image forming apparatus 20 ₂ receives the control command, the shared folder of the auxiliary storage unit 24 by the image forming apparatus 20 ₂ is provided, to check unauthorized printing suppression function setting table 50 is stored, unauthorized printing suppression function When the setting table 50 is stored, a command for permitting reference to the unauthorized printing suppression function setting table 50 is transmitted to the printer driver 14. When the unauthorized printing suppression function setting table 50 is not stored, the printer driver 14 is stored. Send a message to tell the result.

Thus, unauthorized printing suppression function setting table 50 uses the two-way communication function of file sharing and printer driver 14 the image forming apparatus 20 ₂ has has, the image processing apparatus 10 ₂ and the image forming apparatus 20 ₂ and the The file is shared via the network 40 and the table can be referred to from the printer driver 14.

As described above, according to the second embodiment, by using a bidirectional communication function of file sharing and printer driver 14 the image forming apparatus 20 ₂ has has, the image processing apparatus 10 ₂ and the image forming apparatus 20 ₂ and the The operation conditions for controlling the unauthorized printing suppression function can be determined by referring to the unauthorized printing suppression function setting table 50 shared between the files via the network 40, and the determined unauthorized printing suppression is determined. In accordance with the watermark drawing setting that is an operation condition for controlling the function, the watermark generation unit 143 superimposes the image data indicating unauthorized printing prohibition on the original document image data PDL converted by the rendering unit 144. Print data generated by the rendering unit 144 is returned to the spooler 12, and the image data is generated as one image data. After the control of the communication unit 13 via the network 40, that print data to the image forming apparatus 20 ₂ is sent, the print inhibition based on control system for confidential information is a user environment (security policy) This makes it possible to visually inform the user of the information shown in an easy-to-understand manner. Further, the image processing apparatus 10 _2, even when not holding the unauthorized printing suppression function setting table 50, it is possible to maintain the unauthorized printing deterrent effect.

Example 3, the unauthorized printing suppression function setting table 50, and stored in the auxiliary storage device of a hard disk or the like management server that manages the image forming apparatus 20 ₃ comprises, realizes the unauthorized printing suppression function.

In Example 1, the unauthorized printing suppression function setting table 50, but were those stored in the auxiliary storage device such as a hard disk included in the image processing apparatus _103, in the third embodiment, unauthorized printing suppression function setting table 50 and stored in a management server that manages the image forming apparatus 20 _3, the management server, the user environmental management system for confidential information is (security policy) to easy to manage and operate the unauthorized printing suppression capabilities based, This is in consideration of a highly confidential image processing system that prevents unauthorized modification of the unauthorized printing suppression function setting table 50.

Therefore, the difference between the first embodiment and the third embodiment is only the difference in the storage location of the configuration example of the image processing system shown in FIG. 11 and the unauthorized printing suppression function setting table 50 shown in FIG. Therefore, in the following description of the third embodiment, the configuration example of the main part in FIG. 3, the configuration example of the unauthorized printing suppression function setting table 50 in FIG. 4, the flow of the unauthorized printing suppression function in FIG. 5, and the unauthorized printing prohibition in FIG. target user, the processing relating to the identification decision, such as the image processing apparatus _103, processing related to the document data and the identification determination of the image forming apparatus 20 ₃ of unauthorized printing prohibited 7, the drawing process of the unauthorized printing function for suppressing 8, 9 has the same configuration, processing flow, and printing result as in the first embodiment, and therefore, the same reference numerals are given to the same configuration when FIGS. 3 to 9 are used. Therefore, the description is omitted.

  FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of an image processing system according to the third embodiment.

The image processing system shown in FIG. 11, other than the management server 30 regarding the image forming apparatus 20 _3, are the same as the configuration example has been described in Figure 1 of Example 1, the same configuration examples, the same reference numerals The explanation is omitted.

The management server of the image processing system shown in FIG. 11, LAN (Local Area Network), are connected to the network 40 such as public line and a radio network, authentication of a user who uses the image forming apparatus 20 _3, use user information to the recording and the image forming apparatus 20 ₃ (including "execution job history", and the like.), control is performed such print job from the image processing apparatus ₁₀₃ are transmitted via the network 40.

FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of the image processing apparatus 10 ₃ , the image forming apparatus 203, and the management server according to the _third embodiment.

The image processing apparatus ₁₀₃ in FIG. 12, an application 11, a spooler 12, a communication unit 13, and a printer driver 14. In addition, the application 11, the spooler 12, the communication unit 13, and the printer driver 14 are the same as the configuration example described in FIG. 2 of the first embodiment. Is omitted.

The image forming apparatus 20 ₃ in FIG. 12, a communication unit 21, the control unit 22, a main storage unit 23, printing unit 25. In addition, the communication unit 21, the control unit 22, the main storage unit 23, the auxiliary storage unit 24, and the printing unit 25 are the same as the configuration example described in FIG. The same reference numerals are given and the description is omitted.

  The management server 30 in FIG. 12 includes a communication unit 32 and an unauthorized printing suppression function setting table 50. In addition, the management server 30 includes an auxiliary storage device, and stores an unauthorized printing suppression function setting table 50. The storage location where the unauthorized printing suppression function setting table 50 is stored is in a specific shared folder based on a management system (security policy) for confidential information that is a user environment.

  The unauthorized printing suppression function setting table 50 stored in the auxiliary storage device of the management server 30 has access rights set based on a management system (security policy) for confidential information that is a user environment. A user other than the user is allowed only read access from the printer driver 14.

Therefore, takes place in a unauthorized printing suppression function, unauthorized printing prohibited users in FIG. 6, the processing relating to the identification decision, such as the image processing apparatus _103, the document data and the image forming apparatus of unauthorized printing prohibited in FIG 20 processing relating to the identification determination of _3, the drawing process of unauthorized printing function for suppressing FIG 8, a method of referring to the unauthorized printing suppression function setting table 50, the printer driver 14, the information acquisition function to an image forming apparatus 20 ₃ (status monitor) This is realized by using the bidirectional communication function possessed to realize the above and the file sharing function possessed by the management server.

First, the printer driver 14, if the image processing apparatus 10 unauthorized printing suppression function setting table 50 to ₃ to operate is not stored, via the network 40, to the management server 30, referring to the unauthorized printing suppression function setting table 50 Request permission to do so. When requested for access permission, the management server 30 determines whether or not to permit access to the user who is going to print, based on the user authentication information (account information) managed by the management server 30. Is permitted, the printer driver 14 is allowed to refer to the unauthorized printing suppression function setting table 50. If the access is not permitted, a message informing the printer driver 14 is transmitted.

Thus, unauthorized printing suppression function setting table 50 uses the two-way communication function of the file sharing function and the printer driver 14 in the management server, between the management server 30 and the image processing apparatus _103, the network 40 And the table can be referred to from the printer driver 14.

As described above, according to the third embodiment, using a two-way communication function of the file sharing function and the printer driver 14 the management server 30 has, between the management server 30 and the image processing apparatus _103, the network The operation condition for controlling the unauthorized printing suppression function can be determined by referring to the unauthorized printing suppression function setting table 50 that is file-shared via 40, and the determined unauthorized printing suppression function is controlled. The watermark generation unit 143 superimposes the image data meaning prohibition of illegal printing on the base document image data converted by the rendering unit 144 in accordance with the watermark drawing setting which is an operation condition for one image. The print data generated as data and generated by the rendering unit 144 is returned to the spooler 12, and thereafter The control parts 13, through the network 40, that print data to the image forming apparatus 20 ₃ is fed, the information indicating the print inhibition based on control system for confidential information is a user environment (security policy), This makes it possible to inform users visually and clearly. Further, the management server 30 is limited in the number of users who can log on, so it is highly effective in preventing unauthorized changes in the unauthorized printing suppression function setting table 50 (high confidentiality), and the unauthorized printing suppression function setting is set in one place. The administrator can easily manage and operate the unauthorized printing suppression function.

Example 4, in addition to the unauthorized printing function for suppressing Example 1, based on the additional warning setting information unauthorized printing suppression function setting table 50, a display connected to the image forming apparatus 20 ₄ (CRT, etc.) or an image forming apparatus 20 The warning content of illegal printing is displayed on a display device such as an operation panel provided in the operation panel ₄ .

In the first exemplary embodiment, the illegal print suppression function is realized by superimposing image data indicating prohibition of illegal printing on image data of a print document by using the watermark generation function of the printer driver. in example 4, in addition to the process in example 1, based on the additional warning setting information unauthorized printing suppression function setting table 50, a display image processing apparatus ₁₀₄ is provided (CRT, etc.) or an image forming apparatus 20 ₄ comprises operating A warning is given to the panel for unauthorized printing, and a deterrent effect for unauthorized printing not only to the user but also to other users who use the image processing system is considered.

Therefore, differences Example 1 and Example 4, below 13, a display connected to the image processing apparatus 10 ₄ (CRT, etc.) and the image forming apparatus 20 ₄ additional display unit included in, shown in Figure 14 The configuration example of the main part is merely the difference in the flow of the unauthorized printing suppression function shown in FIG. Therefore, in the following description of the fourth embodiment, the configuration example of the image processing system in FIG. 1, the configuration example of the unauthorized printing suppression function setting table 50 in FIG. 4, the unauthorized printing prohibited target user in FIG. processing relating to the identification determination of ₄ such as processing relating to the identification judgment of the document data and the image forming apparatus 20 ₄ of unauthorized printing prohibited 7, the drawing process of the unauthorized printing function for suppressing FIG 8, the printing of unauthorized printing function for suppressing 9 Since the result example has the same configuration, processing flow, and printing result as those in the first embodiment, the same reference numerals are given to the same components in conjunction with FIGS. 1, 4, and 6 to 9. Is omitted.

Figure 13 is a diagram showing the arrangement of an image processing apparatus ₁₀₄ and the image forming apparatus 20 ₄ according to the fourth embodiment.

The image processing apparatus ₁₀₄ in FIG. 13, an application 11, a spooler 12, a communication unit 13, the printer driver 14, and a bad print suppression function setting table 50. In addition, the application 11, the spooler 12, the communication unit 13, and the printer driver 14 are the same as the configuration example described in FIG. 2 of the first embodiment. Is omitted.

The image processing apparatus ₁₀₄ in FIG. 13, a character, a display having a function of displaying graphics and images and the like (CRT, etc.) are connected. Its configuration, the image processing apparatus ₁₀₄ is provided with a video adapter, a display connected from (CRT, etc.) cable (display cable) is connected to the terminal of the video adapter.

Therefore, the image processing apparatus ₁₀₄ can display based on the additional warning setting information unauthorized printing suppression function setting table 50, a warning against unauthorized printing to a display (CRT, etc.).

  The unauthorized printing suppression function setting table 50 shown in FIG. 13 has operation condition information for controlling the unauthorized printing suppression function, and the operating condition information for controlling the unauthorized printing suppression function indicates that unauthorized printing is prohibited. In addition to watermark drawing setting information for generating meaningful image data, it includes additional warning setting information for warning against unauthorized printing using a display display, a warning light, or the like.

The additional warning method setting information of the operation condition information for controlling the illegal printing suppression function is the additional warning method setting for warning against illegal printing using a display display, a warning light, or the like shown in FIG. Information (eg, “Dev”, “Disp”, “Ctn”, “Info”, etc.), and display device information (eg, “Dev”, “Disp”, etc.) that designates a device to be displayed. It is composed of warning content information (for example, “Ctn”, “Info”, etc.) that is a warning content. The operation condition information additional warning method setting information for controlling the unauthorized printing suppression function includes display device information (for example, “Dev”, “Disp”) for specifying a device to be displayed, as shown in FIG. Etc.), one additional warning method setting information is performed by combining the setting values of warning content information (for example, “Ctn”, “Info”, etc.) that is the warning content to be displayed. , set value a warning contents of unauthorized printing on the display unit 26 of the image forming apparatus 20 ₄ "Dev_Ctn", set value a warning contents of unauthorized printing a display connected to the image processing apparatus 10 ₄ (CRT, etc.) "Disp_Ctn", three setting values to display the contents to be careful about handling of the document data subjected to unauthorized printing at display connected to the image processing apparatus 10 ₄ (CRT, etc.) "Disp_Info" is shown.

The image forming apparatus 20 ₄ in FIG. 13, the communication unit 21, the control unit 22, a main storage unit 23, an auxiliary storage unit 24, printing unit 25, a display unit 26. In addition, the communication unit 21, the control unit 22, the main storage unit 23, the auxiliary storage unit 24, and the printing unit 25 are the same as the configuration example described in FIG. The same reference numerals are given and the description is omitted.

The image forming apparatus 20 ₄ in FIG. 13, a display unit 26.

Display unit 26 includes a liquid crystal display device or the like, the control unit 22, information related to the print job, the image forming apparatus 20 ₄ driving conditions, various information such as the input condition and device status as well as screen display, to the user This is for displaying a warning or the like. In an MFP (Multi-Function Printer), the display unit 26 has a touch panel function.

  The display unit 26 also includes a warning light such as a red light.

Therefore, the image forming apparatus 20 _4, based on the additional warning setting information unauthorized printing suppression function setting table 50, a warning against unauthorized printing, the control of the control unit 22 can be displayed on the display unit 26.

  FIG. 14 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of a main part according to the fourth embodiment.

  The configuration of FIG. 14 is divided into identification information acquisition means 61, unauthorized printing suppression means 62, suppression function setting table change means 63, and display means 71. Further, since the identification information acquisition unit 61, the unauthorized printing suppression unit 62, and the suppression function setting table change unit 63 are the same as those described in FIG. 3 of the first embodiment, the same reference numerals are used for the same units. The explanation is omitted.

Display means 71, which is determined by the unauthorized printing inhibition means 62, in accordance with an operation condition for controlling the unauthorized printing suppression function adding warning method setting, display connected to the image processing apparatus 10 ₄ (CRT, etc.) or an image forming apparatus 20 ₄ to the display unit 26 such as an operation panel provided is used for displaying the warning contents of unauthorized printing.

  Below, the example of the display means 71 is shown using the structural example of the unauthorized printing suppression function setting table 50 of Fig.4 (a).

For example, when a user Tanaka who belongs to Group 2 prints document data using PC-1, the user, group, and image processing apparatus 10 ₄ subject to the unauthorized printing suppression function setting table 50 in the unauthorized printing suppression function setting table 50. ID5 is selected as the corresponding entry based on the identification information (first identification determination). Next, the user Tanaka is, if you try to print the document data to the image forming apparatus 20 ₄ set to the IP address of 123.456.789.101, the identification information on the image forming apparatus 20 ₄ in each entry of the corresponding ID5 based, entry ID5 is selected (second identification determination), the display unit 71 in accordance with the additional warning method set in the entry of ID5, the display unit 26 of the image forming apparatus 20 ₄ (Dev), the unauthorized printing Is displayed (Ctn). Further, when a user Suzuki belonging to Group 1 prints document data using PC-2, the user, group, and image processing apparatus 10 ₄ subject to the unauthorized printing suppression function in the unauthorized printing suppression function setting table 50. Based on the identification information, ID2, ID3, and ID6 are selected as corresponding entries (first identification determination). Next, the user Suzuki is, if you try to print the document data to the IP address set in the image forming apparatus 20 ₄ of 123.456.789.100, entry ID2 is selected (second identification determination), the display means 71 in accordance with additional warning method set in the entry of the ID2, a display connected to the image processing apparatus ₁₀₄ to the (CRT, etc.) (Disp), the warning contents to unauthorized printing is displayed (Ctn).

As described above, the display unit 71 is an operation condition for controlling the unauthorized printing suppression function set by the suppression function setting table changing unit 63 based on the management system (security policy) for the confidential information that is the user environment. according some additional warning method set, the display unit 26 such as an operation panel display connected to the image forming apparatus 20 ₄ (CRT, etc.) or an image forming apparatus 20 ₄ comprises, displaying the warning contents of unauthorized printing.

  FIG. 15 is a flowchart illustrating the flow of the unauthorized printing suppression function according to the fourteenth embodiment.

15, the application 11, open the document data to be printed, from the print function of the application 11 is provided to select the image forming apparatus 20 ₄ to be printed, by pressing the print button on the screen, the specified image forming apparatus when printing the document data from the 20 _4, the printer driver 14, which indicates whether unauthorized printing suppression function how they are executed.

  The processing in S101 to S105 in FIG. 15 is the same as the processing described in FIG. 5 of the first embodiment, and thus the same reference numerals are given to the same processing and description thereof is omitted.

The processing in S501 in FIG. 15 (display unit 71) is performed according to the additional warning method setting, which is the operation condition for controlling the unauthorized printing suppression function, determined by the processing in S105 in FIG. 15 (illegal printing suppression unit 62). the display unit 26 such as an operation panel of the image processing apparatus ₁₀₄ connected to the display in (CRT, etc.) or an image forming apparatus 20 ₄ comprises is performed processing for displaying a warning contents of unauthorized printing.

  Details of the processing performed in S501 of FIG. 15 will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 16 is a flowchart illustrating processing related to warning display of the unauthorized printing suppression function according to the fourth embodiment.

Figure 16 is a display unit 71, Ya based on whether the operating conditions for controlling the unauthorized printing suppression function (warning method set) is determined, which is connected to the image forming apparatus 20 ₄ display (CRT, etc.) the display unit 26 such as an operation panel of the image forming apparatus 20 ₄ comprises, shows the process of displaying the warning contents of unauthorized printing.

  First, the display unit 71 determines that the additional warning method setting, which is an operation condition for controlling the unauthorized printing suppression function of the entry in the unauthorized printing suppression function setting table 50 determined by the unauthorized printing suppression unit 62, is an unauthorized printing by display. It is determined whether or not to perform the warning (whether or not the additional warning method setting is “None”) (S601).

  The display unit 71 determines whether “Dev_Ctn” is set for the additional warning method setting when the warning for illegal printing by display is not performed (the additional warning method setting is a setting other than “None”) (YES in S601). (S603).

Display means 71, if the additional warning method set "Dev_Ctn" is set (S603 is YES), the image forming apparatus 20 _4, a control command to display the contents of warning of unauthorized printing, the printer driver 14 Transmit (S604). As a result, the control unit 22 of the image forming apparatus 20 _4, in accordance with the transmitted control command, to the display unit 26, unauthorized printing of warning contents, such as the display example shown in FIG. 17 (a) is displayed.

  If “Dev_Ctn” is not set in the additional warning method setting (NO in S603), the display unit 71 determines whether “Disp_Ctn” is set in the additional warning method setting (S605).

Display means 71, if the "Disp_Ctn" the additional warning method setting is set (S605 is YES), the printer driver 14, the image processing apparatus ₁₀₄ to the connected on the display, wherein a warning contents of unauthorized printing A process for displaying the displayed window is executed (S606). As a result, the image processing apparatus ₁₀₄ to the connected on the display, a warning contents of unauthorized printing is described window similar to the display example shown in FIG. 17 (b) is displayed.

  If “Disp_Ctn” is not set in the additional warning method setting (NO in S605), the display unit 71 determines whether “Disp_Info” is set in the additional warning method setting (S607).

Display means 71, if the "Disp_Info" the additional warning method setting is set (S607 is YES), the printer driver 14, the image processing apparatus ₁₀₄ to the connected on the display, wherein a warning contents of unauthorized printing A process for displaying the displayed window is executed (S608). As a result, the image processing apparatus ₁₀₄ to the connected on the display, a warning contents of unauthorized printing is described window similar to the display example shown in FIG. 17 (c) is displayed.

  Further, when “Disp_Info” is not set in the additional warning method setting (S607 is NO), the display unit 71 does not issue an illegal printing warning by display (S609).

  Further, when the additional warning method setting is a setting value of “None” (S601: NO), the display unit 71 does not issue an illegal printing warning by display (S609).

As described above, according to the fourth embodiment, in accordance with the additional warning method setting that is the operation condition for controlling the unauthorized printing suppression function determined by the unauthorized printing suppression unit 62, the display unit 71
The display unit 26 such as an operation panel of the image processing apparatus ₁₀₄ to the connected display (CRT, etc.) or an image forming apparatus 20 ₄ comprises, displaying the information concerning the handling of warning content and printed documents unauthorized printing In addition to notifying the user of information indicating printing prohibition based on the management system (security policy) for confidential information that is the user environment, it also prevents unauthorized printing to other users who use the image processing system It is possible to maintain the effect.

  Although the present invention has been described based on each embodiment, the present invention is not limited to the requirements shown here, such as combinations of other elements with the shapes listed in the above embodiments.

  With respect to these points, the present invention can be changed within a range that does not detract from the gist of the present invention, and can be appropriately determined according to the application form.

It is a figure which shows the structural example of the image processing system which concerns on Example 1 and 2 of this invention. 1 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of an image processing apparatus and an image forming apparatus according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. It is a block diagram which shows the structural example of the principal part which concerns on Examples 1-3 of this invention. It is a figure which shows the structural example of the unauthorized printing suppression function setting table which concerns on Examples 1-4 of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the unauthorized printing suppression function which concerns on Examples 1-3 of this invention. 7 is a flowchart illustrating processing related to identification determination of an unauthorized printing prohibited user, an image processing apparatus, and the like according to Embodiments 1 to 4 of the present invention. 6 is a flowchart showing processing relating to document data to be prohibited from unauthorized printing and processing for identifying an image forming apparatus according to first to fourth embodiments of the present invention. It is a flowchart which shows the drawing process of the unauthorized printing suppression function which concerns on Examples 1-4 of this invention. It is a figure which shows the example of a printing result of the unauthorized printing suppression function which concerns on Examples 1-4 of this invention. It is a figure which shows the structural example of the image processing apparatus and image forming apparatus which concern on Example 2 of this invention. It is a figure which shows the structural example of the image processing system which concerns on Example 3 of this invention. It is a figure which shows the structural example of the image processing apparatus which concerns on Example 3 of this invention, an image forming apparatus, and a management server. It is a figure which shows the structural example of the image processing apparatus and image forming apparatus which concern on Example 4 of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the structural example of the principal part which concerns on Example 4 of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the unauthorized printing suppression function which concerns on Example 4 of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the process regarding the warning display of the unauthorized printing suppression function based on Example 4 of this invention. It is a figure which shows the example of a display of the unauthorized printing suppression function which concerns on Example 4 of this invention.

Explanation of symbols

10n image processing apparatus 20n image forming apparatus 30 management server 40 network (LAN)

Claims (19)

Identification information acquisition means for acquiring identification information such as information for identifying a user, information for identifying a group to which the user belongs, and information for identifying an image processing apparatus;
Based on the identification information acquired by the identification information acquisition means, and having unauthorized printing suppression means for performing printing by superimposing image data meaning prohibition of unauthorized printing on image data to be prohibited from unauthorized printing. A featured image processing apparatus.   The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the unauthorized printing suppression unit prints image data indicating printing prohibition with contents that are visually understandable to a user.   3. The identification information includes predetermined character string information included in the name of the document data, storage location information where the document data is stored, and output destination information where the document data is printed. An image processing apparatus according to 1. Having watermark generation means,
The image processing according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the watermark generation unit generates image data indicating print prohibition based on the identification information acquired from the identification information acquisition unit. apparatus.   5. The fraudulent printing suppression unit prints symbols, marks, and character strings used as image data meaning printing prohibition using easy-to-understand colors and fonts. The image processing apparatus according to one item.   The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the unauthorized printing suppression unit prints image data indicating printing prohibition within a maximum drawable range of a sheet.   7. The unauthorized printing suppression unit prints a character string used as image data meaning printing prohibition using identification information for identifying a user. Image processing apparatus.   2. The fraudulent printing inhibiting unit prints a character string used as image data meaning printing prohibition using identification information for identifying an image processing apparatus used at the time of printing. 8. The image processing apparatus according to any one of items 7 to 7. It has an unauthorized printing suppression function setting table for setting the unauthorized printing suppression function,
The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the unauthorized printing suppression unit performs printing based on an unauthorized printing suppression function set in the unauthorized printing suppression function setting table. The unauthorized printing suppression function setting table includes a plurality of entries for each unauthorized printing suppression function setting,
Each entry includes identification information for identifying a user and an image processing apparatus that are targets of the unauthorized printing suppression function, predetermined character string information included in the document data name, storage location information where the document data is stored, document The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising output destination information for printing data and operation condition information for controlling an illegal printing suppression function. A suppression function setting table changing means for registering and updating the unauthorized printing suppression function setting table;
11. The inhibition function setting table changing unit can change the contents of an entry in the unauthorized printing inhibition function setting table corresponding to the administrator when a predetermined administrator is authenticated. An image processing apparatus according to any one of the above.   12. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the unauthorized printing inhibition function setting table is incorporated in a program for registering and updating the unauthorized printing inhibition function setting table. . When a management server that manages data exchanged by the image forming apparatus is connected via a network,
The unauthorized printing suppression function setting table is stored in the management server and is referred to by an image processing apparatus used by a user via the network when the unauthorized printing suppression unit is performed. Item 11. The image processing apparatus according to any one of Items 1 to 10. When the image forming apparatus is connected via a network,
An unauthorized printing suppression function setting table for setting an unauthorized printing suppression function is stored in the image forming apparatus and is referred to by an image processing apparatus used by a user via the network when the unauthorized printing suppression unit is performed. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the image processing apparatus is an image processing apparatus. Having a display means;
The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the display unit displays that the unauthorized printing suppression unit has been performed.   The image processing apparatus according to claim 17, wherein the display unit displays information relating to handling of printed print data. An identification information acquisition procedure for acquiring identification information such as information for identifying a user, information for identifying a group to which the user belongs, and information for identifying an image processing apparatus;
And an unauthorized printing suppression procedure for performing printing by superimposing image data meaning prohibition of unauthorized printing on image data to be prohibited from unauthorized printing based on the identification information acquired in the specific information acquisition procedure. An image processing method. Identification information acquisition means for acquiring identification information such as information for identifying a user, information for identifying a group to which the user belongs, and information for identifying an image processing apparatus;
Based on the identification information acquired by the specific information acquisition unit, the computer is caused to execute an unauthorized printing suppression unit that performs printing by superimposing image data meaning prohibition of unauthorized printing on image data to be unauthorized printing prohibited. Image processing program.   A storage medium storing the image processing program according to claim 18.

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