MSI 321URX running Panel Protect pixel clean every time the monitor goes into standby regardless of runtime

[detsyx]

I am currently having issues with the monitor running the Panel Protect pixel clean every time it goes to sleep/standby regardless of runtime. Could be used for 10min or 2hr, when it goes to sleep, it runs the process. I've owned the monitor for 6mo, and the issue started this past weekend on FW.011. I then updated to the latest firmware FW.012, and it still persists. Protect notice is set to 16hrs, tried a factory reset, replugging power, unplugging the monitor for hours, setting power button to turn OFF instead of Standby, all the troubleshooting I could find or think of. On top of flashing FW.012 again per MSI support, I tried flashing back to FW.010, and it happens on all firmwares. MSI Tech support suggested I do an RMA, and I got one approved, but they are requiring that I pay return shipping, which I'm reluctant to do. I've found 6 other users between reddit and discord having this issue and haven't found a solution. Anyone have or are aware of this issue? Did you contact MSI and/or find a fix?
Thanks