Anger as HP printer update ‘blocks third-party ink’

HP has angered users after what’s being reported as a firmware printer update is preventing people from using ink made by other companies.

One user on online forum Reddit complained that their device would print only when an HP cartridge was installed.

They said that their printer showed the message: “The indicated cartridges have been blocked by the printer firmware because they contain a non-hp chip. This printer is intended to work only with new or reused cartridges that have a new or reused HP chip” (see screenshot).

They added that previously the printer would show a message saying it couldn’t “guarantee quality”, but would still allow printing.

When they contacted HP to complain, the company reportedly told them that it was “due to the recent update of all printers”.

HP customers have also complained on the company’s forums (www.snipca. com/45431), with one writing: “I cannot believe that it’s legal for you to do this, and

I’m assuming this is a mistake.”

Since 2016 HP has used a system called ‘Dynamic Security’ to check the legitimacy of cartridges. It admits that as well as adding features and thwarting security threats, its printer updates can “block cartridges using a non-hp chip or modified or non-hp circuitry from working in the printer, including cartridges that work today” (www.snipca. com/45430).

All major printer manufacturers impose restrictions to encourage you to buy their own ink cartridges, which are typically more expensive than those sold by third parties. Frustrated users have long complained that this limits customer choice and amounts to a ‘legal’ scam.