Specifically, the regulator found that HP has for years been using printer firmware to prevent the use of non-original cartridges, to deny assistance for printers that have used non-original cartridges and to gather consumption data without customer consent, limitations that have been renewed or modified via subsequent firmware updates. The watchdog has given HP 60 days to submit a report on the steps taken to comply with the order, and 120 days to amend sales packages to clearly indicate the restrictions on non-original cartridges and toners according to the installed firmware. Previously, Reuters reported that HP Inc would pay a $6 million civil fine to settle U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission charges it concealed efforts to boost sales of printing supplies in order to meet quarterly sales and earnings targets. The SEC said some HP regional managers used incentives to accelerate, or "pull in," sales they expected to materialize in later quarters.