Untrusted system file - EZFRD64.dll (joystick driver)

Product: Star Wars: Squadrons
Platform:PC
Please specify your platform model. PC
What is your gamertag/PSN ID/EA Account name? havoc_skull
Are you playing in VR? No
Which part of the game is the issue happening in? Other
Please explain 'Other' Launching the game
What were you doing when the bug occurred? Step by Step detail is helpful. i click play in origin / i double click star wars: squadrons icon on desktop
Where did this issue occur? Please include menu name or in game location. during the game launch splash screen
When did this happen? (dd.mm.yy hh:mm) 27.12.20 16:30
How often does the bug occur? Every time (100%)
How severe is your issue? Can't play
What happens when the bug occurs? the game launch splash screen appears, it loads, then hangs and disappears - the game is still showing in the task manager - when i select end task i get a pop up notification that says "Untrusted system file (C:\Program Files (x86)\USB_Vibration\PHANTOM HAWK\EZFRD64.dll)" the folder and dll it mentions belong to the flightstick software/drivers (speedlink phantom hawk)
What do you expect to see? the game launching
Which ship were you playing? If not applicable, just answer "no" or "none." none
What components were you using? no
Which customizations (if any) were you using? no

‌

I've already tried the things mentioned on the EAC website (which were about as helpful as if they weren't even there).

please help.

the game is borderline unplayable on mouse ☹️