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● TRACKER Updated 2d ago · 52 sources tracked

LG responds to findings about Smart TV spying

LG is removing the Microsoft Copilot app from its TVs after user complaints about intrusive AI. This comes amid a class-action settlement over privacy issues with smart TVs, with payout dates expected 3-12 months after the June 1, 2026 deadline. Consumers have reacted to invasive advertising and monitoring by destroying screens or disconnecting network hardware.

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  • ✓ LG TVs are displaying a notice about the 'Microsoft Copilot Service Termination'.
  • ✓ A class-action settlement deadline passed on June 1, 2026, with payout dates expected 3-12 months after.
🛡️ Source Corroboration: 52 independent reporting domains (80% confidence) ⏱ Read time: ~2 min

What changed

LG confirmed it will end support for the Microsoft Copilot app on its smart TVs before 2027, following user complaints.

Live updates

  1. LG responds to Smart TV spying findings

    LG is removing the Microsoft Copilot app from its TVs after user complaints about intrusive AI. This comes amid a class-action settlement over privacy issues with smart TVs, with payout dates expected 3-12 months after the June 1, 2026 deadline. Consumers have reacted to invasive advertising and monitoring by destroying screens or disconnecting network hardware.

    Why it matters

    The issue of smart TV spying has been ongoing, with research revealing over 57 million publicly accessible viewing detection records. Many users are frustrated with the lack of control over their data and the invasive practices of smart TV manufacturers. This has led to increased scrutiny of companies like LG and Samsung, with some users taking drastic measures to protect their privacy.

    What is confirmed

    • LG TVs are displaying a notice about the 'Microsoft Copilot Service Termination'.
    • A class-action settlement deadline passed on June 1, 2026, with payout dates expected 3-12 months after.

    Still unconfirmed

    • Samsung devices are always listening to their owners, according to an independent security researcher known as @Log4j.

    What to watch next

    • The payout dates for the class-action settlement.
    • Further reactions from consumers and other smart TV manufacturers.
    • The impact of the Microsoft Copilot app removal on LG TV users.
    Sources used for this update (5)
    1. www.nytimes.com — The New York Times - Breaking News, US News, World News and Videos
    2. gizmodo.com — Best VPN for Verizon Fios in 2026: Speed and Privacy
    3. medviso.com — Segment Publications - Medviso
    4. www.dailymail.com — Your TV might be spying on you: Samsung devices secretly ...
    5. ground.news — LG TVs to Remove Copilot App After Complaints - Ground News
    confidence 80%

  2. Smart TV Privacy Research Reveals Persistent Tracking and Exposed Records

    Recent privacy investigations into smart television platforms reveal that viewing surveillance and automatic content recognition traffic continue to transmit even after users explicitly disable these tracking features. Research identified more than 57 million publicly accessible viewing detection records across affected systems. While a class action settlement deadline passed on June 1, 2026, payout dates remain unlisted and are expected three to twelve months following the deadline. Frustrated consumers are increasingly reacting to invasive advertising and monitoring by physically destroying screens or disconnecting network hardware entirely.

    Why it matters

    Smart televisions have faced mounting scrutiny over continuous user surveillance and local audio transcription storage. Users attempting to protect their data find that opt-out mechanisms frequently fail to stop data transmission. This tension between home entertainment features and aggressive corporate data collection has driven consumers toward manual hardware modifications and artificial intelligence tools designed to block tracking.

    What is confirmed

    • Smart television platforms continued transmitting traffic consistent with automatic content recognition after users disabled the feature.
    • A privacy investigation uncovered more than 57 million publicly accessible viewing detection records.
    • The claim deadline for the smart television class action settlement passed on June 1, 2026.

    Still unconfirmed

    • Most smart television lawsuit settlements pay out three to 12 months after the claim deadline.

    What to watch next

    • Actual payout dates and distribution schedules for the smart television class action settlement
    • Further technical audits regarding operating system data retention practices
    Sources used for this update (7)
    1. www.tvguide.com — The Complete Guide to Fall TV 2026: Everything to Know About What to Watch This Season
    2. trypayout.app — LG Smart TV Lawsuit Payout Date — Deadline Passed (2026)
    3. www.theguardian.com — ‘It was so satisfying when I threw a rock through the screen ...
    4. cyberinsider.com — Smart TV privacy study finds tracking persists even when opting out
    5. cyberpress.org — Smart TVs Expose 57 Million Viewing Records, Continue ...
    6. arstechnica.com — Does opting out of smart TV tracking work? Research finds ...
    7. lawfold.com — Television Lawsuit December 2026: Settlement Claim Info
    confidence 90%

  3. LG Smart TV privacy concerns persist as users seek third-party blocks

    LG has not provided a formal response to allegations that its televisions record audio and scan networks. While security researchers identified webOS vulnerabilities allowing root access via port 3001 and the ThinQ app, some users are turning to AI-driven tools like Dumbtv and Cleanyourtv to remove tracking and ads from Android-based sets. These developments follow reports from Gamers Nexus that LG devices store transcribed text locally before transmission, prompting some owners to physically remove microphones and network hardware to ensure privacy.

    Why it matters

    The controversy centers on whether Smart TVs function as spyware through unauthorized data collection. Vulnerabilities in webOS specifically allow attackers to execute commands without a PIN.

    Still unconfirmed

    • LG televisions scan local networks, record audio, and store transcribed text locally before transmission.
    • Three webOS flaws can be chained across port 3001 and the ThinQ app pairing service to achieve root access without user interaction.
    • AI tools like Dumbtv and Cleanyourtv strip ads and tracking from Android-based televisions without root access.

    What to watch next

    • Official statement or security patch from LG regarding webOS vulnerabilities
    • Confirmation of whether AI tracking-removal tools work on LG webOS systems
    Sources used for this update (2)
    1. www.pcmag.com — The Latest Technology Product Reviews, News, Tips, and Deals
    2. tech.yahoo.com — Developers Are Using AI to Strip Ads and Tracking From Smart TVs
    confidence 70%

  4. LG TV webOS Flaws and Spyware Allegations Persist

    LG faces intense scrutiny following security findings that reveal webOS vulnerabilities allowing local network attackers to achieve root access without user interaction. An anonymous researcher demonstrated that three distinct flaws can be chained together across port 3001 and the ThinQ app pairing service to execute commands without requiring a PIN. Meanwhile, Gamers Nexus documented that LG televisions function as spyware by scanning local networks, recording audio, and storing transcribed text locally before transmission. Users have reacted to these privacy threats by physically dismantling hardware to remove internal microphones and network modules.

    Why it matters

    Security disclosures previously showed that LG issued firmware fixes for specific models tested during the initial webOS research. However, the exact range of vulnerable devices across the entire product line remains unclear. Privacy concerns have escalated from software exploits to hardware-level surveillance allegations as independent investigations into data collection practices continue.

    What is confirmed

    • An anonymous researcher chained three webOS flaws to gain control of an LG TV over the local network.
    • LG released a firmware fix for the discovered webOS vulnerabilities.

    Still unconfirmed

    • LG TVs operate as spyware by scanning local networks, recording audio even when unplugged, and storing transcribed text locally for later transmission.

    What to watch next

    • Confirmation of the total scope of LG TV models affected by the webOS security vulnerabilities
    • Official statements from LG addressing the Gamers Nexus findings regarding audio recording and local transcription
    Sources used for this update (4)
    1. www.foxnews.com — Fox News - Breaking News Updates | Latest News Headlines | Photos...
    2. www.zdnet.com — I wore Ray-Ban Meta Audio glasses in public, and my biggest concern never came up
    3. www.tbpndigest.com — Are your devices actually listening? The LG TV spyware ...
    4. mediasat.info — Researcher hacks LG TV without a PIN by chaining three webOS ...
    confidence 100%

  5. LG Smart TVs Face Security Vulnerabilities and Privacy Scrutiny

    LG faces severe security threats as researchers uncover critical webOS vulnerabilities allowing local network attackers to gain root access without user interaction. Security disclosures reveal that three flaws can be chained together via port 3001 and the LG ThinQ app pairing service to bypass authentication and execute root commands. Meanwhile, privacy concerns intensify as users take extreme physical measures to block data collection, such as dismantling TV hardware to remove internal microphones and network modules. LG has issued firmware fixes for the specific models tested, though the full scope of affected devices remains unclear.

    Why it matters

    Smart TV manufacturers face mounting pressure over continuous viewing data collection and network scanning practices. Recent hardware teardowns highlight growing consumer distrust regarding built-in microphones and surveillance risks. Additionally, newly exposed webOS security flaws demonstrate how local network access can be exploited to compromise television operating systems.

    What is confirmed

    • Three vulnerabilities in LG's webOS can be chained to give an attacker on the same local network root access to certain smart TVs without a PIN or owner interaction.
    • LG has issued a fix for the webOS vulnerabilities according to an advisory published by SSD Secure Disclosure on October 12.
    • The attack chain against LG webOS enters through a service exposed on port 3001, which is used by the LG ThinQ app for pairing.
    • A YouTuber disassembled an LG OLED G6 to remove the combined Wi-Fi and Bluetooth module and two microphones from the bottom bezel in response to data collection and espionage reports.

    Still unconfirmed

    • Apple is potentially collaborating with LG on new smart home devices, including an Apple smart doorbell.
    • Televisions can have their microphones misused for surveillance if compromised.

    What to watch next

    • Whether LG releases firmware updates covering additional smart TV models beyond those already tested.
    • Further security disclosures regarding the full scale of affected webOS firmware versions.
    • Official confirmation from Apple or LG regarding any prospective smart home hardware partnerships.
    Sources used for this update (7)
    1. www.thetechedvocate.org — LG’s Shocking Privacy Scandal: Why Is Apple Partnering on a Smart Doorbell Anyway?
    2. mashable.com — October Prime Day is over: See the 20+ best deals still live, including PRODUCT + PRODUCT
    3. www.legalexaminer.com — Is Your Smart TV Tracking What You Watch? When Data ...
    4. www.europesays.com — LG OLED G6: YouTuber removes Wi-Fi and microphones due to ...
    5. cybersecuritynews.com — LG webOS Flaws Let Remote Attackers Execute Commands as Root ...
    6. thehackernews.com — LG Smart TVs Vulnerable to Pre-Auth Root Takeover From Local ...
    7. aviatrix.ai — LG Smart TV Root Takeover Vulnerability 2026 - webOS Security ...
    confidence 90%

  6. LG Defends Smart TV Privacy Amid Data Collection Allegations

    LG Electronics maintains its commitment to combining personalization and convenience in its smart TV experiences while facing allegations of egregious privacy invasion. The company disputes claims of continuous recording, though external reports suggest tracking viewing habits is a standard industry practice. Users can manage privacy through specific settings, and some researchers suggest router-level fixes to stop data transmission. While LG asserts it puts privacy controls in the hands of users, critics argue the devices quietly track viewing data to sell to advertisers.

    Why it matters

    Smart TVs often scan home networks and collect usage data to fuel targeted advertising. This conflict pits corporate personalization goals against consumer privacy rights. Previous scrutiny of LG also included reports of adware installation on monitors.

    What is confirmed

    • LG Electronics claims to provide smart TV experiences that balance convenience and personalization.
    • LG faces allegations of privacy violations regarding smart TV data collection.

    Still unconfirmed

    • LG TVs may listen to users while the power is off.

    What to watch next

    • Results of the Gamers Nexus investigation into LG TV listening capabilities
    • Official LG response to specific adware installation allegations on monitors
    Sources used for this update (12)
    1. www.speedtest.net — Speedtest by Ookla - The Global Broadband Speed Test
    2. www.howtogeek.com — I stopped letting my smart TV spy on me—a $50 Raspberry Pi ...
    3. www.speedtesthq.com — Internet Speed Test - Check Wifi, Broadband & 5G Speed
    4. speed-test.io — Internet Speed Test - SpeedTest
    5. fast.com — Internet Speed Test | Fast.com
    6. newtelegraphng.com — LG Puts Privacy Control In Users’ Hands As Smart TV Adoption
    7. techtaps.com — Samsung vs LG Smart TV Privacy: What Data Each Collects
    8. www.smarthomeperfected.com — Smart TV Privacy: What Your TV Collects and How to Stop It
    9. speed.cloudflare.com — Internet Speed Test - Measure Network Performance | Cloudflare
    10. www.smarthomeperfected.com — LG TV Listening When Off? What Was Found and What Stops It
    11. dailysecurityreview.com — LG Accused of Privacy Violations Over Smart TV Data ...
    12. macaubusiness.com — Radha Exports partners with Körber for advanced warehouse automation in Singapore | Macau Business
    confidence 80%

  7. LG Smart TVs collect viewing data, users can opt out

    LG smart TVs collect data on viewing habits and scan home networks, but require user opt-in for voice recognition. The company disputes allegations of continuous recording, but researchers and media outlets report that tracking is standard practice across the industry unless users manually opt out. Factory resetting the TV can remove certain data logs.

    Why it matters

    The issue of smart TV data collection has raised concerns about user privacy. LG's data collection practices are similar to those of other smart TV manufacturers. Users can take steps to limit data collection, but may need to manually opt out of tracking features. The industry's data collection practices may change as users become more aware of the issue.

    What is confirmed

    • LG smart TVs collect data on viewing habits and scan home networks.
    • LG requires users to opt-in for voice recognition.
    • Factory resetting an LG TV can remove certain data logs.

    Still unconfirmed

    • LG smart TVs continuously record conversations.

    What to watch next

    • LG's response to growing user concerns about data collection
    • Investigations into the data collection practices of other smart TV manufacturers
    • Development of new features or settings to give users more control over data collection
    Sources used for this update (6)
    1. www.zdnet.com — Your LG smart TV is constantly collecting your data – here’s how to stop it
    2. www.cnet.com — People’s Picks: Shopping for a TV for the Holidays? This Is the Brand Readers Say You Should Stick To
    3. adguard-dns.io — LG smart TVs and the surveillance behind the screen
    4. darkmarc.substack.com — Your LG ‘Smart TV’ is Spying on You - Here’s How to Stop It ...
    5. www.business-humanrights.org — LG denies its smart TVs secretly record users, but questions ...
    6. english.mathrubhumi.com — All the news on lg - Mathrubhumi English
    confidence 80%

  8. LG denies spying claims as reports highlight industry-wide tracking

    LG maintains that its smart TVs do not continuously record conversations and requires users to opt-in for voice recognition. However, security researchers and media outlets report that these devices track viewing habits via Automatic Content Recognition and scan home networks. While LG disputes the specific spying allegations, reports indicate that tracking what users watch is a standard practice across the smart TV industry unless users manually opt out.

    Why it matters

    A September 6 investigation by Gamers Nexus and Level1Techs alleged that LG TVs capture ambient audio and track external devices. These findings sparked a broader debate about consumer privacy and device security.

    What is confirmed

    • LG denies that its smart TVs continuously record conversations.
    • LG requires an opt-in for voice recognition.

    Still unconfirmed

    • LG TVs capture ambient audio and scan home networks.

    What to watch next

    • Official responses from other smart TV manufacturers regarding tracking practices.
    Sources used for this update (2)
    1. www.ecoustics.com — LG Denies Smart TV Spying Claims But The Privacy Story Is More Complicated
    2. www.theverge.com — It’s not just LG. Every TV company is spying on you
    confidence 90%

  9. LG Denies Secret Audio Recording Following Multi-Researcher Probe

    LG has rejected allegations that its smart TVs secretly record conversations and transmit user data. The company issued a statement on its website claiming that recent media reports created misconceptions about how its devices operate. LG asserts that user privacy is a fundamental principle and that voice recognition requires an opt-in. These denials respond to a September 6 investigation by Gamers Nexus, Level1Techs, and other security researchers who claim the TVs capture ambient audio, scan home networks, and track content from external devices like gaming consoles.

    Why it matters

    Smart TVs often use Automatic Content Recognition to track viewing habits for advertising. If these devices capture audio or network data without consent, it represents a significant breach of consumer privacy. The current dispute centers on whether LG's data collection exceeds the permissions users granted.

    What is confirmed

    • LG issued a statement on its website denying that its smart TVs continuously record or transmit user conversations.
    • Researchers allege LG smart TVs scan home networks for other devices.
    • LG maintains that voice recognition is subject to an opt-in clause.

    Still unconfirmed

    • LG smart TVs track content displayed through computers and gaming consoles.
    • LG smart TVs harvest more data than users signed up for.

    What to watch next

    • Technical verification of the specific data packets transmitted by LG TVs during standby
    • Regulatory investigations into LG's webOS security policies
    • Public release of the full Gamers Nexus and Level1Techs technical report
    Sources used for this update (6)
    1. www.techrepublic.com — LG Pushes Back on Claims That Its Smart TVs Are Spying on Users
    2. www.lawcommentary.com — LG Smart TVs Accused of Recording Conversations and Scanning Devices Inside Homes
    3. tech.yahoo.com — LG Rejects Claims Its Smart TVs Secretly Record Users
    4. techgenyz.com — LG Claims Its Smart TVs Are Not Spying On Viewers
    5. tech.yahoo.com — GamersNexus investigation says LG smart TVs are harvesting more data than users signed up for
    6. www.theblaze.com — Your smart TV may be watching you back: NEW report reveals troubling details
    confidence 90%

  10. LG Denies Audio Surveillance Allegations for Smart TVs

    LG has rejected claims that its smart televisions record ambient conversations for advertising purposes, calling reports of audio capture and uploads misleading. The company maintains that such surveillance does not occur unless a user has opted in. These denials follow reports that LG devices scan local area networks for third-party phones and other devices, and allegations that the hardware continues to spy on users even when the television is on standby or offline.

    Why it matters

    Smart TV privacy concerns center on the collection of personal data and home environment audio. This dispute highlights the tension between manufacturer feature sets and consumer privacy expectations regarding always-on hardware.

    What is confirmed

    • LG denies that its televisions record ambient conversations for advertising data.
    • LG claims reports stating its TVs capture and upload audio are misleading.

    Still unconfirmed

    • LG TVs scan local area networks for third-party phones and other devices.

    What to watch next

    • Regulatory investigations into LG's data collection opt-in disclosures.
    Sources used for this update (7)
    1. Al Jazeera — LG defends smart-TV features amid audio surveillance allegations
    2. The Verge — LG TVs caught spying even when offline or on standby
    3. Ars Technica — LG TV shown scanning LAN for third-party phones and other devices
    4. CNET — LG Denies Its Televisions Record Ambient Conversations for Ad Targeting
    5. FlatpanelsHD — LG responds to findings about Smart TV spying
    6. www.theverge.com — LG responds to TV spying allegations
    7. gizmodo.com — LG Denies Its TVs Are Spying on You (Unless You Opted In)
    confidence 90%
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