From Ars Technica · · 1 min
LG TVs caught probing local networks and recording offline audio
Security research reveals LG smart TVs scan local networks for phones and smartwatches and store audio locally even when disconnected.
In brief
Security research reveals LG smart TVs scan local networks for phones and smartwatches and store audio locally even when disconnected. Smart TVs collect granular network and device data even without active permission; disconnecting them from Wi-Fi entirely is the safest way to prevent tracking. Originally reported by…
LG TVs caught scanning local networks
Security testing revealed LG smart TVs actively crawling home networks to map unconnected third-party devices, including staff smartphones and smartwatches.
“The [G5] crawled our entire network and found dozens of unrelated devices, including smartwatches and phones of our staff...”
Deep visibility into your home network
Network analysis revealed the TVs can identify local IP addresses, nearby Wi-Fi SSIDs, signal strengths, and precise geographical locations without user configuration.
Fuel for secondary device targeting
LG's advertising arm boasts access to over 363 million secondary devices in the US, leveraging local network discovery to serve targeted ads across personal devices.
LG calls scanning standard functionality
LG claims background scanning is standard across smart home ecosystems to enable device connectivity, local content sharing, and smart home integration.
“This is a standard function commonly provided by smart TVs and smart home devices.”
Disconnecting doesn't guarantee offline privacy
Even when used as dumb displays, smart TVs can store tracking data locally or autoconnect via open ISP hotspots, uploading cached analytics once reconnected.
Microphones active even when disconnected
Security researchers captured microphone audio recorded in standby mode and stored locally in plaintext, raising concerns about offline surveillance.
“We were even able to capture microphone audio while the TV was unplugged from the network.”
LG denies listening without wake words
LG states standby audio processing strictly listens locally for enabled wake words like 'Hi LG' and immediately deletes unactivated background audio.
High price tag doesn't prevent tracking
Flagship displays costing thousands of dollars exhibit the same aggressive data collection as budget brands, shattering the belief that high-end hardware protects privacy.
What it means
Smart TVs collect granular network and device data even without active permission; disconnecting them from Wi-Fi entirely is the safest way to prevent tracking.
