HP agrees to settle class action lawsuit over printer updates accused of behaving like malware.

HP has recently come to an agreement to settle a class-action lawsuit concerning allegations that updates to its printers function as malware. This settlement allows HP printer owners to bypass an update that restricts the use of non-HP ink and toner on specific printer models. HP aimed to shift towards a subscription-based printing model by implementing “dynamic security” systems in their printers to authenticate ink and toner cartridges. These security measures digitally alter printer compatibility, preventing some printers from operating with non-HP ink and toner, even if they were initially purchased without these restrictions. The lawsuit, finalized in August 2024 and recently approved by a Judge, resulted from a firmware update in November 2020 that blocked various printers referred to as ‘Class printers’. The lawsuit argued that HP forces users to purchase and use only HP ink and toner supplies by transmitting unauthorized firmware updates that lock out competitors’ products. The updates were likened to malware in the lawsuit’s claims. HP’s dynamic security support page explained that printers equipped with this feature are designed to work exclusively with cartridges containing HP components, blocking those with non-HP parts. As part of the settlement, HP will pay $5,000 each to two class representatives, Mobile Emergency Housing Corp and Performance Automotive & Tire Center, and an additional $5,000 to a newly added plaintiff named David Justin Lynch. These payments are intended to compensate them for their services on behalf of the affected classes. The positive outcome of this settlement is that owners of class printers can decline the ‘dynamic security’ update and continue using third-party ink. However, only printers on a specific list and those made before 2016 have this option. For printers not included in the settlement and manufactured after 2016, there is a risk of future security measures restricting the use of non-HP ink. HP’s website lists several printers as ‘dynamic security enabled’, indicating their compatibility with only HP ink and toner. If consumers prefer more affordable third-party ink, they may need to verify their printer’s compatibility. This settlement provides some relief to HP printer owners affected by the restrictive firmware update, allowing them to choose the type of ink and toner they prefer for their devices. It highlights the importance of transparency and consumer choice in printer technology.