HP ink cartridge 962 for printer 9015 SE error message

[rjackson63]

I have a non-Insta ink HP printer model 9015 SE and I have ink cartridge HP 962 blue and I am getting the error message that the cartridge has been altered or cloned when it has not. Please help overwrite this. I have done the most recent Software update as well.

[Kuroi_Kenshi · Accepted solution]

Hi @rjackson63,

Welcome to the HP Support Community!

Thanks for reaching out!

We're thrilled to have the opportunity to assist you and provide a solution.

I understand your HP 9015 SE printer is showing an “altered or cloned cartridge” error for your HP 962 blue cartridge, even though it’s genuine. Let’s go through steps to resolve this issue.

a. Power Cycle the Printer

Turn the printer off and unplug it from the power source.

Wait 60 seconds, then plug it back in and turn it on.

Sometimes a simple reset clears false cartridge errors.

b. Remove and Reinsert the Cartridge

Open the ink cartridge access door.

Remove the HP 962 blue cartridge carefully.

Check for protective tape that may still be on the contacts — remove it if present.

Reinsert the cartridge firmly until it clicks into place.

c. Clean Cartridge Contacts

Turn off the printer.

Remove the cartridge and gently clean the gold contacts on the cartridge and inside the printer with a lint-free cloth lightly moistened with distilled water.

Let it dry completely, then reinsert.

d. Check for Firmware Updates

You mentioned you updated software recently, which is good. Sometimes errors persist if the update didn’t fully apply — ensure the printer is connected to the internet and check Settings → Printer Maintenance → Update Printer.

e. Reset the Printer’s Smart Chip Cache

HP printers track chip information to detect clones. A semi-full reset can clear the error:

Open the Control Panel → Setup → Printer Maintenance → Restore Factory Defaults / Semi-Full Reset (exact path may vary by model).

Follow on-screen prompts.

After the reset, reinsert the HP 962 cartridge.

I hope this helps.

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Best regards,