Reports allege LG smart TVs log audio and scan local networks even when screen is off

LG smart TVs are alleged to record audio and probe local network devices even with the screen turned off.

LG smart TVs have been reported to collect audio data and scan local networks for connected devices even when the television screen is powered off, according to coverage from Notebookcheck and a YouTube analysis. The behavior, if confirmed, would mean the sets are actively gathering information in what users reasonably expect to be an inactive state. The reports focus on two distinct alleged behaviors: audio logging — capturing sound from the room — and network snooping, meaning the TV actively queries other devices on the home network. Both activities occurring with the screen off are the core concern raised by the coverage. LG is one of the world's largest TV manufacturers, and estimates cited in the reporting put the number of potentially affected sets at around 216 million units, suggesting the issue, if validated, would have a very wide reach. No detailed technical methodology from the original investigation is available from the source bodies provided.

Why it matters

If accurate, the behavior would represent a significant and undisclosed privacy intrusion affecting hundreds of millions of households worldwide. It would also raise questions about regulatory compliance under data protection laws in the EU, US, and elsewhere.

What's next

It is worth watching for an official response from LG addressing the specific allegations, and for any regulatory inquiry that may follow if the findings are independently verified.

Key facts

• LG smart TVs are alleged to log audio even when the screen is turned off
• The TVs are also alleged to scan and probe other devices on the local home network
• Approximately 216 million LG smart TV units are cited as potentially affected
• Coverage comes from Notebookcheck and a YouTube technical analysis video
• No official LG statement addressing these specific claims is present in the available source material

Bias & framing notes

Neither source provided body text, so the underlying evidence, methodology, and any LG response cannot be assessed. The YouTube headline ('216M Spy TVs') is highly sensational, while Notebookcheck's framing is more descriptive but still assertive. Without access to the actual reporting, it is impossible to verify the factual basis or determine whether LG was given opportunity to respond. The trust score is low solely due to the absence of source body text, not because the claim is inherently implausible.

NewsClear — neutral news & congressional tracking · Bill of the Week