A Gamers Nexus investigation reveals LG televisions capture microphone audio even in sleep mode and scan local networks for connected devices, storing data for later transmission.
Up to 216 million LG smart televisions worldwide may be recording audio and scanning local networks without explicit user consent, according to an investigation by technology channel Gamers Nexus. The findings raise significant privacy concerns for consumers who own the South Korean manufacturer's internet-connected displays.
The investigation found that LG televisions continue to capture microphone input even when placed in sleep mode with the screen powered off. When an internet connection is unavailable, the devices store recorded data locally and transmit it to LG servers once connectivity is restored, bypassing user expectations of privacy during inactive periods.
Beyond audio capture, the televisions actively scan local area networks to identify connected devices including smartphones, computers, and wearable technology. The sets also collect information about neighboring Wi-Fi networks, building a detailed map of the digital environment within users' homes.
LG has not publicly responded to the specific technical findings. The investigation underscores growing scrutiny of data collection practices in consumer electronics, particularly regarding devices marketed with voice control features that require persistent microphone access.
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