LG Responds to Claims Its Smart TVs Are Spying on Users

LG has dismissed allegations that its smart TVs covertly record conversations or secretly transmit ambient audio, responding to an investigation by YouTube channel Gamers Nexus. The claims arose from the channel's collaboration with security researchers who analyzed LG smart TVs using methods such as network packet captures and firmware analysis.

Researchers raised several privacy concerns, stating that LG televisions may collect and store information while offline or in standby mode; scan devices connected to the same local network; gather details about nearby Wi-Fi networks; and potentially capture audio using built-in microphones. One significant allegation was that ambient audio could be stored locally and uploaded after the device regained internet access.

The investigation also examined Automatic Content Recognition (ACR), a technology that identifies content shown on a television. LG denied the main audio-related claims in a statement to Tom’s Hardware, asserting that its televisions only process voice data when a user presses and holds the voice button on the remote or when the optional far-field voice recognition is enabled, detecting the "Hi LG" wake phrase.

The company stated that its TVs do not collect or save ambient conversations; any audio used for local wake phrase detection is processed on the device and discarded if no matching command is found. LG confirmed that its smart TVs can detect other devices on the same local network, but emphasized that this is a standard feature to enable functionalities like device pairing, media sharing, and communication between products, not surveillance.

LG also addressed concerns over Automatic Content Recognition (ACR), stating that it is an optional feature that requires user consent and can be disabled via the television’s privacy settings. The company added that ACR data is not used for advertising unless the user has explicitly agreed to its use. While LG’s response primarily addresses the claim of continuous audio listening, it did not refute all technical allegations raised by Gamers Nexus.

The company maintains that users retain control over privacy-related features and continues to monitor and enhance the security of its smart TV platform. The dispute remains centered on the researchers' interpretation of observed behaviors and LG's explanation of its software and voice-recognition systems' intended functionality.