stuck (but not physically) ctrl key

[ghost_in_mach]

I have a 2017 HP laptop (HP Envy x360-15m-bp012dx).

For the last two months, the laptop has an issue where it thinks the ctrl key is pressed, but it is not.  This occurred shortly after the computer was performing an update.

When I display the onscreen keyboard, it shows that the right ctrl key and the left ctrl keys are sporadically pressed, although I am doing nothing.  I can also see a circle appear with regularity where the mouse is located.

The only way that I can log onto the computer is to press the access (ease of use) button on the homepage several times.  Only after doing that will the computer allow me to type letters for my password so that I can log on.

I can no longer perform any work on the computer, so I'm considering purchasing a replacement, but as my HP has also suffered from a hinge issue (the screen separates from the top of the laptop at the hinge), I'll probably avoid an HP laptop.

Things I've tried to resolve the ctrl key issue (none of which work):

1. run keyboard diagnostics (which says there is no problem)

2. start up the computer with ESC - F2 and look for a solution

3. pressing both right and left ctrl keys and holding them down for several seconds

4. pressing ctrl - alt - delete, and then ESC

5. holding ctrl and fn keys down

6. pressing sequence of left shift, left ctrl, left alt, right alt, right ctrl, right shift

7. ensured that sticky keys are off

8. plugged external keyboard into USB

9. plugged external mouse into USB

Any final ideas before I give up on my laptop?