What Firmware Claims Allege
Claims concern firmware updates delivered after purchase that cause printers to reject third-party or refilled ink cartridges which previously worked. The practice is sometimes described by manufacturers as dynamic security.
The allegation is that this materially changes the product after sale. A customer who bought a printer that accepted cheaper cartridges finds it no longer does, without having agreed to that change.
Cartridge cost usually exceeds printer cost
Inkjet printers are commonly sold at or below cost, with profit made on cartridges over the device life. That is why control over which cartridges work has such significant financial consequences for both sides.
The Legal Theories
Consumer protection claims allege that the ability to use third-party cartridges was part of what was purchased, and that removing it by update was an unfair or deceptive practice.
Computer intrusion statutes have been invoked on the theory that an update disabling functionality without informed consent constitutes unauthorised modification of the owner device. Warranty and contract claims argue the product no longer conforms to what was sold.
A separate cluster concerns all-in-one devices refusing to scan or fax when ink is low, where scanning does not require ink, alleged as an artificial restriction unrelated to any technical need.
What Owners Can Do
Check whether automatic firmware updates can be disabled in device settings, though declining updates may forgo security fixes, which is a genuine trade-off rather than a free choice.
Keep purchase records and receipts for third-party cartridges rendered unusable, since settlements in this area have reimbursed exactly those costs.
Updates can arrive automatically
Many printers apply firmware updates without explicit approval where automatic updates are enabled by default. Cartridges working today may stop after an update installed overnight, so check the setting rather than assuming stability.
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HP Class Action Lawsuits: Printer Firmware Updates and Third-Party Ink: Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the most common questions about this case and your legal options.
What do printer firmware lawsuits allege?
That updates delivered after purchase disable third-party cartridges that previously worked, materially changing the product without the owner agreement.
What is dynamic security?
A manufacturer term for firmware that restricts which cartridges a printer accepts, which claims allege blocks third-party and refilled cartridges.
Why does cartridge compatibility matter so much?
Printers are often sold at or below cost with profit made on cartridges, so control over which cartridges work has large financial consequences.
Can I stop firmware updates?
Often yes in device settings, but declining updates may also forgo security fixes, so it is a genuine trade-off.
What about scanning when ink is low?
Claims allege all-in-one devices refuse to scan or fax when ink is low even though scanning requires no ink, which is challenged as an artificial restriction.
Legal Disclaimer
This article is general legal information, not legal advice, and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Case status, eligibility criteria, and any amounts described are as reported at the date shown and may change. Consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction about your own situation.