GoKawiilLG OLED TVs found recording and uploading data even while offline or in standby
An investigation by Gamers Nexus, working with Level1Techs and independent security researchers, found that LG OLED TVs continually scan local Wi-Fi networks for nearby devices, log location and network details, and send this data to LG Ad Solutions. The TVs were also found capable of capturing microphone audio during standby, storing it locally when disconnected from the internet and uploading it once reconnected, alongside using Automatic Content Recognition to identify what owners watch through apps and HDMI inputs.
GoKawiil's interpretation of the reporting above, not reported fact.
The findings suggest that turning off or unplugging a smart TV from the internet does not stop it from collecting sensitive household data, undermining basic assumptions about user control over connected devices. While Automatic Content Recognition is common across the smart TV industry, LG's apparent ability to gather microphone audio and network data during standby raises sharper privacy and security concerns, especially given the company's recent history of installing intrusive software on its monitors.
- LG TVs reportedly scan networks and log audio data even when offline or in standby mode.
- Collected data, including audio recordings, is stored locally and uploaded once internet access resumes.
- This follows a similar controversy earlier this year involving ad-injecting software on LG monitors.
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Published there as: “LG TVs caught spying even when offline or on standby”
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