Hi go_pens,
Your printer has a feature that allows for auto updates. There was actually an update last week or the week before for this printer. These updates update the printer firmware. I believe your mind is still intack, I have faith you are not going senile. :)
I don't believe the message appeared on the printer previously, I suspect you are right, and that the update made this change. In addition to the auto answer accepting the faxes for you, you now have the option to accept or ignore the fax before the auto answer accepts the fax.
I hope this answers and resolves your inquiry! Thanks for reaching out to the HP Forums. If there is anything else we can help you with don't hesitate to ask.