LG smart TVs face backlash over explosive 'eavesdropping' findings

A new investigation has made explosive claims about LG smart TVs.

LG sets collect more personal data than rivals — and can be exploited to record audio in standby mode. 

Further, the TVs continue tracking users even when the screens are switched off, with a security flaw that could let an attacker listen in on a household without the occupant knowing.

The findings come from hardware review outlet Gamers Nexus, which published a video of more than two hours breaking down the security issues on September 7.

The channel worked with several independent cybersecurity researchers to verify and document the results before the video went live.

According to Gamers Nexus, LG TVs can pick up nearby conversations even while the screen is off, a vulnerability that could theoretically let a hacker eavesdrop on anyone nearby.

LG Electronics issued a statement about Gamers Nexus after publication of this story. Their statement is in full below.

How the data collection works - LG Live Plus

Most smart TVs run automated content recognition (ACR) software to serve targeted advertising, logging viewing habits and selling that data to third parties for ad customisation. 

Gamers Nexus said LG's version, branded "Live Plus," goes further than competitors' systems.

Testing several current LG TV models, the outlet and its research partners found the sets identify and store details of other devices on the same home Wi-Fi network — including phones, computers, printers and other connected hardware. 

The investigation also found the TVs log nearby Wi-Fi network names, signal data and device identifiers, building a more detailed picture of household device use than rival TVs collect, according to the report.

Microphones active in standby mode

The researchers said the more serious issue is that the TVs' built-in microphones can keep recording audio in standby mode, after a viewer has used the remote to turn the screen off. 

In the video, Gamers Nexus demonstrated a compromised TV storing audio locally while disconnected from Wi-Fi, then transmitting it once the set reconnected to the network — allowing the recording to be retrieved remotely.

What LG TV owners can do

Gamers Nexus and the researchers it consulted said disabling ACR is the most effective fix, since the Live Plus feature is the primary source of the risk. 

On LG TVs, the setting can be switched off via Settings > General > System > Advanced Settings > Live Plus.

The report outlines several further steps for reducing exposure:

1. Update firmware — check for the latest security patches in the TV's system update menu.
2. Manage voice and microphone settings — disable voice recognition or AI listening features if they aren't in regular use.
3. Isolate the network — put smart TVs and other connected devices on a separate guest network or VLAN, away from work and personal computers.
4. Disconnect when not in use — unplug the TV from power during extended periods away from home.

LG Electronics responds to Gamers Nexus findings

LG responded after publication of this story. 

Their statement to Mediaweek in full reads: 

"LG Electronics takes customer privacy seriously and is committed to providing clear information and meaningful choices around how our products operate.

"Recent claims that LG TVs continuously record ambient conversations are not correct. 

"LG TVs process voice data when the voice button on the remote control is pressed and held, or when a recognised wake word such as “Hi LG” is detected after the customer has activated Far-Field voice recognition.

"Outside these instances, LG TVs do not collect or record ambient conversations. If a wake word is not recognised, no voice data is transmitted to LG servers. Audio processing required for wake-word detection takes place locally on the device and the audio is immediately deleted.

"LG TVs can also scan for and connect with compatible devices on the same network to enable connected features, such as those associated with smart TV and smart home functionality. This is a standard capability of connected smart devices.

"Automatic Content Recognition (ACR) is offered on an opt-in basis to support personalised content recommendations, services and advertising. If a customer does not consent to the applicable optional agreement, ACR data is not used for advertising purposes. 

“We believe customers should have clear information about these features and control over their privacy choices, and we remain committed to transparency around how our connected products operate. LG Electronics.”