Report says LG TVs log data offline and on standby

LG smart TVs are almost constantly logging and uploading data about owners and their homes, according to a report from YouTube channel Gamers Nexus.

The investigation, conducted with Level1Techs and independent security researchers, tested retail LG OLEDs. Packet captures showed the TVs scanning local Wi-Fi networks for nearby hardware, including phones and smartwatches. They also logged location data and details of nearby Wi-Fi networks, then sent the information to LG Ad Solutions.

The TVs could also record microphone audio while in standby. According to the report, this continued after a TV was disconnected from the internet: audio files were stored offline and uploaded when the connection was restored.

The report also examined Automatic Content Recognition (ACR). This technology uses audio and video data to identify what viewers are watching, including apps used through the TV's smart interface and content connected through HDMI and other ports.

A separate RTINGS video says ACR is used by almost every smart TV manufacturer. LG has previously faced scrutiny from Gamers Nexus over some monitors that automatically installed an app collecting device data and showing pop-up ads for LG apps and McAfee antivirus. Public pressure led to Microsoft intervention and LG disabling the ads.