Request popped up by (apparently) HP app requesting admin rights

[Robvkam]

https://h30434.www3.hp.com/t5/Printer-Setup-Software-Drivers/Update-to-HP-Smart-App-forces-me-to-giv...

Above is the question I have today, posted by someone else 6 months ago. But there was no answer and the chat is locked to new comments.

The reply was that I can decline to use the app if I don't like it. But the question was if I can trust that it is HP asking for this permission or if I or HP has been hacked. Can someone answer that? 

Ie., if I get the popup from HP asking for access to my hard drive etc, how do I know that it's HP. I don't get those from anyone else. Other apps need updating but tell ME to initiate the process, after which the popup asks for permission. But this was started without my input. 

[Dragon-Fur · Accepted solution]

@Robvkam 

Welcome to the HP Community --

You can trust that the request is coming from HP as long as your system is secured against incursions that originate outside of your network security.

What?

You have to secure your network and the devices you operate in that network -

Having done that, requests that come from applications you have installed on your computer will only generate requests that are (should be) allowed.

Next,

Best Practice includes allowing Network Discovery and File and printer sharing while running on a Private Network. 

Windows_Network-and-Sharing_Discovery_2

HP Smart might display (or block) requests to use or update the application to a new version.

The request might display as a pop-up request to "make changes" to your network.

Control Advanced app settings

Settings > Apps > Advanced app settings

Choose where to get apps

What else?

No, we cannot answer the question whether your system has been "hacked".

System security, including application vulnerability, is handled by your computer's Windows Defender security or third party security software you have installed on your network and your device(s) / computer(s).

===================================

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[Robvkam]

Thanks for the very informative answer. No wonder people get hacked and scammed. Computers are unsafe unless you have a high level of technical expertise, or are willing to pay someone to do all this. Very scary. 

[Dragon-Fur]

@Robvkam 

You are welcome.

Windows is vastly complicated -- much of what you can do is within your control.

Control Panel > icon view > Security and Maintenance

Change User Account Control Settings 

Select the level of control you want to exert when Windows wants to make changes.

A common setting

Second from bottom

"Notify me only when apps try to make changes to my computer (do not dim my desktop)"

It is normal for an application for HP Smart to update itself on occasion.

Windows displays the message so you are aware the app is asking for permission to make these changes.

What else?

There are multiple articles on the subject -

Use your favorite browser and search for 

"Change User Account Control Settings"

Sample - AI generated answer

Understanding User Account Control (UAC)

User Account Control (UAC) is a security feature in Windows that helps prevent unauthorized changes to your computer. It prompts for permission when actions require administrator-level access, protecting your system from malware and unauthorized modifications.

Changing UAC Settings

To change UAC settings in Windows 10 or 11, follow these steps:

1. Click the Start button.
2. Type UAC in the search bar and select Change User Account Control settings.
3. Move the slider to choose your preferred notification level.
4. Click OK to save your changes.

UAC Notification Levels

Notification Level Description

Always notify me	Prompts for permission for all changes, including those made by the user.
Notify me only when apps try to make changes (default)	Notifies only when third-party apps attempt to make changes, not for user-initiated changes.
Notify me only when apps try to make changes (no dim)	Similar to the default but does not dim the desktop during prompts.
Never notify me	Disables UAC, allowing apps unrestricted access, which is not recommended for security.

Important Considerations

• Security Risks: Disabling UAC can expose your system to security threats. It is advisable to keep it enabled for better protection.
• Administrator vs. Standard Accounts: UAC behaves differently based on the account type. Standard users need to enter an administrator password for elevated actions, while administrators receive prompts for confirmation.

Adjusting UAC settings can help balance security and convenience based on your usage needs.

Wikipedia

Dell

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[Robvkam]

You have helped immensely but I note for others that it should not be "normal" for apps to just update themselves automatically. There seems to be no way to really know who created the popup window. Why would I agree to the update if I can't tell that? (sorry if I'm repeating myself.)