Microsoft is force installing a Windows 10 update that removes the embedded 32-bit version of Adobe Flash Player from the operating system.
In October, we reported that Microsoft had released the KB4577586 optional update to remove the embedded 32-bit Flash Player from Windows and prevent it from being installed again.
This update was only available from the Microsoft Catalog, and once installed, could no longer be removed. This update marks an end to embedded Flash in the Windows 10, Windows 8, and Windows Server operating systems.
Starting yesterday, Microsoft has begun to distribute the 'Update for Removal of Adobe Flash Player for Windows 10 (KB4577586)' update via Windows Update as what they state is an optional update.
IMPORTANT As part of the end of support for Adobe Flash, KB4577586 is now available as an optional update from Windows Update (WU) and Windows Server Update Services (WSUS). Installing KB4577586 will remove Adobe Flash Player permanently from your Windows device. Once installed, you cannot uninstall KB4577586. For more details about Microsoft’s plans, see Update on Adobe Flash Player End of Support.
In our tests, though, the update is automatically installed without your permission and without prompting you first.
Once installed, the KB4577586 update will be listed under 'Other Updates' in the 'View update history' section, as shown below.
BleepingComputer has contacted Microsoft to confirm if the update's automatic installation is a mistake but has not heard back.
Comments
TsVk! - 3 years ago
Couldn't come soon enough. Great news!
Wolverine 7 - 3 years ago
Yes,..jolly well done Microsoft,..as usual,feedom of choice is paramount,..especially great for people who still require flash,such as people home schooling children,..brilliant,..outstanding effort,..well done,..
NoneRain - 3 years ago
Dude, Flash is known for vulnerabilities. It was discontinued in the end of 2020. I don't know in which scenarios kids would need Flash nowadays, but, your kids are safer online without it....
If you really NEED it, revert (uninstall) the update, hide it (https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/hide-windows-updates-or-driver-updates-5df410a1-90f7-b744-0682-43be9c8fa17c) and done..
doriel - 3 years ago
Ruffle is the solution to this, its a browser extension, that allows you to run Flash even after Flash is considered "as dead" now. Not working 100%, but could help.
Go to https://ruffle.rs/ website, scoll down and install extension to your supported browser.
Cryog - 3 years ago
Looking at my Control Panel, I do have Flash Player (32-bit) installed & (thankfully) did not get Microsoft's forced KB4577586 update.
But I have 3 questions:
1. How do I find out what version of Flash Player is on my comfuser?
2. I have a few older programs & games, is there a way I can check if any of them need the Flash Player?
3. If I don't need it, how do I uninstall Flash Player w/o Microsoft's forced update (I have Revo Uninstaller, will this help)?
dkingsbo - 3 years ago
I took note there is an "optional" update to run KB5000842, if I click the checkbox, the KB will run. . My Adobe flash player is already uninstalled. Why am I getting this message? Can I uninstall this notification?