[ubuntu] Can't Get Rid of Epson

After failing to install an Epson WP 4530 inkjet printer, I resorted to some risky behavior in signing on with launchpad, which may have compromised my system.
The printer still doesn't work, so I deleted it from Printers.
But following two wipes and reinstalls of Ubuntu 16.04 in the past 48 hours, Epson's network still has a base camp in my computer and there is no way to delete it, as all I get are error messages advising that such actions are not permitted by 'backend.' Whatever that is.
Trying to use terminal with rm has failed as well, although it's very possible the code wasn't set up correctly; nonetheless the only terminal output is 'no such file or directory.'
At any rate, I want to completely rid my system of Epson's/launchpad's tentacles, since it's not doing me any good to affiliate with these entities.
The failed printer setup has been deleted from Printers, but that has no effect on Epson's coection with my computer.
. . . Even after several wipes of the HD!
What've I got here. . . a firmware implant?
Any advice would be welcome; just don't tell me I have to reinstall the system again.
That doesn't work.
Clam is useless.