Printer Scans by itself constantly

[MsWestGB]

The printer scans (nothing) when it is unattended.  I check the display and it tells me the Scan was successful.  My printer has a ghost operator.  I would like to know how to stop it from scanning without my permission!

[Hawks_Eye]

Hi @MsWestGB 

Welcome to the HP Support Community! We're here to help you get back up and running.

Thanks for explaining the situation—I'm really sorry your HP OfficeJet 8122e is scanning on its own. That’s understandably unsettling, and while it may feel like a “ghost operator,” this behavior is typically triggered by automated background services, cloud sync features, or third-party app interactions.

Let’s walk through a focused process to stop these unattended scans:

 

Step-by-Step: Stop Unattended Scans on HP OfficeJet 8122e

1. Disable Web Services

• On the printer’s control panel:
  • Go to Settings > Web Services > Remove Web Services.
• Confirm removal.

This disables remote scan triggers from HP Smart Cloud, Instant Ink, or other linked services.

 

2. Check HP Smart App Automation

• Open the HP Smart app on your Mac or mobile device.
• Go to Settings > Smart Tasks.
• Delete or disable any automated scan tasks.

Smart Tasks can be configured to scan at intervals or when certain conditions are met.

 

3. Disconnect from HP Cloud

• Log in to your HP account at https://www.hp.com.
• Go to My Printers > HP OfficeJet 8122e > Settings.
• Disable any cloud-based scan or print triggers.

This ensures no remote commands are being sent from your account or linked devices.

 

4. Update Firmware

• Visit: HP OfficeJet 8122e Drivers & Firmware
• Download and install the latest firmware update.

Firmware updates often resolve unintended scan behavior and background task bugs.

 

5. Reset Network Settings

• On the printer’s control panel:
  • Go to Settings > Network Setup > Restore Network Defaults.
• Reconnect manually to your Wi-Fi afterward.

This clears any lingering remote access configurations.

Let me know if the scans continue after these steps or if you’ve linked the printer to any third-party automation tools (e.g., IFTTT, Google Home). 

You’re doing everything right by catching this early—I’ll stay with you until it’s fully under control.

If my response helped, please mark it as an Accepted Solution! ✅ It helps others and spreads support. 💙 Also, tapping "Yes" on "Was this reply helpful?" makes a big difference! Thanks! 😊

Take care, and have an amazing day!

Regards, 

Hawks_Eye