HP Printer 'Used or Counterfeit Cartridge' — Supply Alert and Override

Fix HP printer supply alerts including 'Used or Counterfeit Cartridge Detected', cartridge protection errors, and how to use non-HP supplies. This guide covers everything you need to know about this topic, including common causes, step-by-step solutions, and answers to frequently asked questions.

Here are the key things to understand: HP printers with Dynamic Security may reject non-HP cartridges via firmware updates. HP+ enrolled printers REQUIRE genuine HP cartridges — this cannot be bypassed. Standard HP printers can be set to accept third-party cartridges by disabling cartridge protection. Refilled HP cartridges may show as 'Used' because the smart chip was not reset. Firmware updates may add new restrictions on third-party cartridge acceptance. Understanding these fundamentals will help you diagnose and resolve this issue more effectively.

The most common reasons this occurs include: Third-party or refilled cartridge installed in a printer with Dynamic Security enabled. HP+ enrollment requiring genuine HP cartridges only. Cartridge smart chip not recognized — damaged, dirty, or incompatible. Firmware update added new cartridge restrictions. Cartridge region lock: HP cartridge purchased in a different region. Identifying the root cause is the first step toward finding the right solution.

To resolve this, follow these recommended steps: Clean the cartridge contacts: remove cartridge, wipe gold contacts with a lint-free cloth. Disable cartridge protection: on the printer's LCD, go to Setup > System Setup > Supply Settings > Cartridge Protection > Off. Disable HP cartridge policy: Setup > System Setup > Supply Settings > Cartridge Policy > Off. If HP+ enrolled: HP+ requires genuine HP cartridges — there is no workaround. Downgrade firmware: some users revert to older firmware that accepted third-party cartridges (check your model). Use genuine HP cartridges if you need guaranteed compatibility. If these steps do not resolve the issue, consider consulting additional resources or a qualified professional.

This article is part of our Printer Error Codes collection on Error Codes Wiki. We provide comprehensive, up-to-date information to help you find solutions quickly.