LG officially denies reports that its smart TVs are secretly recording users

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1. 1d ago

   LG denies claims that smart TVs secretly record users

   LG has officially rejected allegations that its smart TVs continuously record or transmit user conversations. In a statement on its website, the company called user privacy a "fundamental principle" and suggested recent media reports created misconceptions about how the devices function. The denial follows a September 6 investigation by Gamers Nexus, Level1Techs, and security researchers who accused the company of recording conversations, tracking content from external devices like gaming consoles, and scanning home networks. While LG denies spying, some reports indicate the company has not addressed specific technical concerns regarding audio logging and opt-out settings.

   Why it matters

   Privacy concerns arise from the ability of smart TVs to access microphones and network data. This dispute centers on whether LG's data collection exceeds user consent or occurs without knowledge. The investigation involves multiple independent security researchers analyzing device behavior.

   What is confirmed

   • LG denies that its smart TVs continuously record or transmit user conversations.
   • An investigation on September 6 by Gamers Nexus, Level1Techs, and independent security researchers accused LG TVs of recording conversations and scanning home networks.
   • LG stated on its website that user privacy is a "fundamental principle" of its products.

   Still unconfirmed

   • LG TVs scan local area networks for third-party phones and other devices.
   • LG failed to address buffered audio logging, standby capture, and a Texas-mandated opt-out shipped disabled.
   • LG TVs track content displayed through computers and gaming consoles.

   What to watch next

   • Technical responses from LG regarding buffered audio logging and standby capture
   • Verification of the status of Texas-mandated opt-out settings on shipped devices
   Sources used for this update (10)

   1. Al Jazeera — LG defends smart-TV features amid audio surveillance allegations
   2. Ars Technica — LG TV shown scanning LAN for third-party phones and other devices
   3. The Verge — LG responds to TV spying allegations
   4. Engadget — LG Denies Accusations Of Smart TVs Continuously Recording Its Users
   5. Gizmodo — LG Denies Its TVs Are Spying on You (Unless You Opted In)
   6. AppleInsider — Disconnect your LG television from the internet, now
   7. mashable.com — LG officially denies reports that its smart TVs are secretly recording users
   8. www.lawcommentary.com — LG Smart TVs Accused of Recording Conversations and Scanning Devices Inside Homes
   9. tech.yahoo.com — LG Rejects Claims Its Smart TVs Secretly Record Users
   10. tech.yahoo.com — LG Says Its Smart TVs Aren’t Secretly Recording, But Researchers Say Key Questions Remain
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