LG Smart TVs Allegedly Spy Even When Offline or in Standby Mode

The Unseen Ear of the Smart TV

LG smart televisions are reportedly capturing microphone audio even when the screen is off and the device appears to be in standby mode. This revelation stems from a recent investigation conducted by Gamers Nexus, in collaboration with Level1Techs and independent security researchers. The findings suggest a pervasive data collection mechanism operating beyond user expectations.

These LG TVs reportedly store audio recordings locally when disconnected from the internet. Once an internet connection is re-established, the stored data is then uploaded. This process allows for continuous data collection, circumventing immediate user awareness or control over data transmission.

Beyond audio capture, the investigation also revealed that LG TVs scan local networks. They identify other connected devices such as phones, personal computers, printers, and smart-home hardware. Information about nearby Wi-Fi networks is also collected, painting a detailed picture of the user’s digital environment.

Historical Context of LG’s Data Practices

This is not the first instance of LG facing scrutiny over its data collection practices. In 2013, the company admitted that some of its Smart TVs collected viewing information without explicit consent. This occurred even when users had disabled the feature designed to prevent such collection.

LG’s terms of service for its smart TVs reportedly grant the company the right to record and analyze voice conversations. This is stated as a means to “improve” its AI services. However, this clause contrasts with previous statements from LG.

LG previously asserted that its televisions “do not collect, record, or store ambient conversations.” The company maintained that voice-recognition features were optional and user-activated. The recent investigation challenges these assurances.

Technical Vulnerabilities and User Controls

Researchers also uncovered remote code execution vulnerabilities within webOS, LG’s smart TV operating system. Full details of these vulnerabilities are not yet public. This is due to ongoing responsible disclosure processes, allowing LG time to address the issues before widespread exploitation.

Users do possess some control over privacy settings on LG TVs. These settings allow for the disabling of viewing data collection, personalized advertising, and voice control features. However, the investigation suggests that some data collection may persist despite these user-configured preferences.

The implications of these findings extend beyond LG. They highlight broader concerns regarding the privacy implications of smart devices. The line between convenience and surveillance continues to blur as technology integrates deeper into daily life.

The Unseen Data Stream

Microphones activate. Networks scan. Data uploads.

Privacy.

• Question: Do LG smart TVs record audio even when turned off?

  Answer: A recent investigation by Gamers Nexus, Level1Techs, and independent security researchers indicates that LG smart TVs can capture microphone audio even when the screen is off and the TV appears to be in standby mode. These recordings are reportedly stored locally and uploaded once an internet connection is re-established.

• Question: What kind of data do LG smart TVs collect besides audio?

  Answer: In addition to microphone audio, LG smart TVs reportedly scan local networks for other devices like phones, PCs, printers, and smart-home hardware. They also collect information about nearby Wi-Fi networks, providing a comprehensive overview of the user’s connected environment.

• Question: Has LG addressed these privacy concerns before?

  Answer: Yes, LG has faced scrutiny over data collection previously. In 2013, LG admitted that some of its Smart TVs collected viewing information without consent, even when users had disabled the relevant features. The company has also stated that voice-recognition features are optional and user-activated, and that ambient conversations are not collected.

• Question: Can users disable data collection on LG smart TVs?

  Answer: Users can adjust privacy settings on LG TVs to disable the collection of viewing data, personalized advertising, and voice control features. However, the recent investigation suggests that some forms of data collection, such as microphone audio capture, may occur even when the TV is seemingly off or disconnected from the internet.

Sources

• The Verge