HP Firmware Updates Continue to Disable Third-Party Cartridges

HP continues to push firmware updates that disable third-party ink and toner cartridges, forcing customers to buy HP-branded supplies at a premium. These updates have prompted ongoing litigation and consumer backlash.

What Is HP Dynamic Security?

HP markets a feature it calls "Dynamic Security" — firmware that checks the security chip on ink and toner cartridges and refuses to print with cartridges HP does not recognize. Cartridges that worked when purchased can suddenly stop working after a firmware update.

The Problem

Customers report that:

• Third-party cartridges they purchased legally stop working after a routine firmware update
• Remanufactured cartridges — even those using HP's own recycled chips — are rejected
• Printers display misleading "cartridge problem" messages that hide the real cause
• Rolling back firmware is difficult or impossible
• Consumers are effectively locked into HP's high-margin supply chain

Why This May Be Illegal

Firmware updates that disable functioning cartridges raise claims under several bodies of law:

Consumer Protection Statutes

State laws such as California's Unfair Competition Law (Business & Professions Code § 17200) and Consumers Legal Remedies Act prohibit unfair, unlawful, and fraudulent business practices. Bricking already-purchased products without adequate disclosure may qualify.

False Advertising

Printers were sold on the promise that they would work with a range of cartridges. Silently changing that after purchase can amount to false advertising.

Antitrust Concerns

Using firmware to lock consumers into a single supplier for consumables raises tying and monopolization concerns under the Sherman Act and state antitrust laws.

Prior Litigation

HP has faced multiple class actions over its firmware behavior, including In re HP Printer Firmware Update Litigation. Those cases resulted in a settlement but did not stop HP from continuing the practice with new firmware releases.

What to Do If Your Cartridges Have Been Disabled

1. Document the exact firmware version installed on your printer
2. Keep receipts for any third-party cartridges you purchased
3. Screenshot the error messages your printer displays
4. Note the date the cartridges stopped working relative to any firmware update
5. Save any HP communications about firmware updates or cartridge compatibility

How Javitch Law Can Help

We investigate consumer claims against manufacturers who use software updates to disable products customers already own. If your third-party cartridges were disabled by an HP firmware update, contact us for a free consultation.

FAQ

Is it legal for HP to disable third-party cartridges with firmware updates?

Depends on state and federal consumer protection law. Multiple lawsuits allege that pushing firmware updates that disable already-purchased third-party cartridges violates state unfair-competition statutes, computer-fraud laws, and the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act.

Can I sue HP if my third-party cartridges stopped working after a firmware update?

You may be able to join or start a class action. Preserve your printer model number, firmware version history, cartridge purchase receipts, and any error messages the printer displayed.

What damages could be recovered?

Refunds for disabled cartridges, diminished value of the printer, and — in some states — statutory penalties for deceptive trade practices. Contact us for a free case review.