Microsoft is forcing the installation of a Windows 10 update that removes the 32-bit embedded version of Adobe Flash Player from the operating system.
In October, we reported that Microsoft released the optional update KB4577586 to remove the built-in 32-bit Flash Player from Windows and prevent it from being installed again.
This update was only available in the Microsoft Catalog and, once installed, could no longer be removed. This update marks the end of Flash built into the Windows 10, Windows 8 and Windows Server operating systems.
As of yesterday, Microsoft started distributing the update ‘Update for Adobe Flash Player removal for Windows 10 (KB4577586)’ through Windows Update, as it claims to be 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 permanently remove Adobe Flash Player from your Windows device. Once installed, you cannot uninstall KB4577586. For more details on Microsoft’s plans, see Update to Adobe Flash Player End of support.
In our tests, however, the update is automatically installed without your permission and without first notifying you.
Once installed, update KB4577586 will be listed under ‘Other updates’ in the ‘View update history’ section, as shown below.
BleepingComputer contacted Microsoft to confirm that the automatic installation of the update was an error, but received no response.