# 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.
- Title: LG TVs caught probing local networks and recording offline…
- Summary: Security research reveals LG smart TVs scan local networks for phones and smartwatches and store audio locally even when disconnected. Smart TVs collect…
- Keywords: privacy, smart tv, cybersecurity, tech news, technology, science, TVs, caught, probing, local, networks, recording
- Source: Ars Technica — https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2026/09/lg-tv-shown-capable-of-tracking-user-activity-even-when-offline
- Published: 2026-09-08T21:52:29+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: privacy, smart tv, cybersecurity, lg, tech news, technology, science
## 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.
## Key takeaway

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.