LG Smart TVs Track User Data Through Standby and Offline States

The analysis, conducted by Gamers Nexus in collaboration with Level1Techs, confirms that these devices perform continuous surveillance by logging location data and identifying nearby hardware such as smartphones and smartwatches. This information is funneled directly to LG Ad Solutions, primarily to fuel targeted advertising profiles. Perhaps most troubling is the capability of the hardware to record microphone audio during standby mode, caching these files locally until a Wi-Fi connection is reestablished to facilitate a data dump.

Beyond simple connectivity tracking, the sets employ Automatic Content Recognition, a sophisticated system that samples audio and video signals to identify specific programs regardless of the input source. Whether you are using a built-in streaming app or an external console connected via HDMI, the TV effectively monitors your viewing habits. While this practice is industry-standard among smart TV manufacturers, the depth of data collection and the retention of files during offline periods highlight a persistent gap between user expectations of privacy and the reality of modern smart home hardware.