Potentially unsafe application in firmware

[D3evans]

I use ESET Smart Security virus protection on my laptop. It has detected a potentially unsafe application (EFI/CompuTrace.A) in my firmware.  Actually 3 similar apps total. How do I clean up my firmware. Can I do it or must I take it to a authorized store? Files are:

\Device\HarddiskVolume1\EFI\HP\BIOS\Current\0898A.bin » UEFI » uefi:\\Volume 3\Firmware Volume Image {20BC8AC9-94D1-4208-AB28-5D673FD73486}\Volume 1\ComputraceComponents - a variant of EFI/CompuTrace.A potentially unsafe application

\Device\HarddiskVolume1\EFI\HP\BIOS\Previous\0898A.bin » UEFI » uefi:\\Volume 3\Firmware Volume Image {20BC8AC9-94D1-4208-AB28-5D673FD73486}\Volume 1\ComputraceComponents - a variant of EFI/CompuTrace.A potentially unsafe application

\\Uefi Partition » UEFI » uefi:\\Volume 3\Firmware Volume Image {20BC8AC9-94D1-4208-AB28-5D673FD73486}\Volume 1\ComputraceComponents - a variant of EFI/CompuTrace.A potentially unsafe application

[Deep_World · Accepted solution]

Hi @D3evans,
 
Welcome to the HP Support Community!

Thanks for reaching out!

Sorry for the inconvenience caused and don’t worry let me help you.

To better understand the issue, could you please provide a few more details?

• The exact HP laptop model you’re using.
• Whether you’ve recently updated your BIOS/UEFI firmware or installed any HP Support Assistant updates.

A few initial troubleshooting steps you can try:

1. Check BIOS/UEFI settings: Restart your laptop and enter the BIOS setup (usually by pressing Esc or F10 at startup). Look for Absolute Persistence Module . If enabled, try disabling it.
2. Update BIOS/UEFI firmware: Visit HP’s official support website for your laptop model and download the latest BIOS update. Updating can overwrite suspicious or outdated firmware components.
3. Run HP PC Hardware Diagnostics: This tool can check the integrity of your firmware and hardware. You can access it by pressing F2 during startup.
4. Cross-check with HP Support Assistant: Run a full update scan to ensure all drivers and firmware are current

I hope this helps.

I'm glad I could help! 😊 If this resolved your issue, please mark it as "Accepted Solution" and click "Yes" on "Was this reply helpful?" Your feedback not only keeps us going but also helps others find the solution faster! 

Take care and have an amazing day ahead! 

Best regards,

Deep_World.  

[D3evans]

I had to input the SN# when I logged in so thought that was already included. 

SN# 5CD13776DH

HP Pavilion Laptop Model 15-eg1077NR

I have not updated my BIOS/UEFI Firmware and I'm not aware of any automatic updates that might have occurred. 

I haven't tried your troubleshooting steps but will later today.  My internet provider has been screwing with the service the last few days and they are finally done. Every time I tried to respond to you, the internet would go down. Today is supposed to be stable enough to try to get into my BIOS and download any updates. I will keep you posted.

[D3evans]

Deep_World,

I followed your steps.

Step (1): I didn't find "Absolute Persistence Module", so no action taken.

Step (2): Updated the BIOS and still got the same alert when I ran the same scan.

Step (3): Ran the "HP PC Hardware Diagnostics" and found no issues.

Did more research on EFI/CompuTrace.A. Found out that its not malware itself, it is classified as a potentially unwanted program (PUP) due to its ability to persist across system reinstalls and its potential for exploitation. Older versions of CompuTrace have been exploited by malware like Lojax, a UEFI rootkit, which hijacked the legitimate CompuTrace module to gain persistent access. That is why its was flagged. If the firmware is up-to-date, it’s likely safe and functioning as intended—tracking and remote wiping for stolen devices.  Since I updated my BIOS to the latest, it should be fine.

I will accept and close  your solution.

[Deep_World]

Hi @D3evans,

Thanks for letting us help you out! If you're all set, please mark this post as 'Accepted Solution' so I can do a virtual happy dance! 

If you need anything else, I'm all ears (or rather, all text). Just let me know! 

You're awesome, and I'm honored to have been your go-to guide today! 

Stay fantastic, and have an amazing day ahead! 

Best Regards,

Deep_World