Stop Samsung and LG TVs from spying on you

TV privacy concerns

Many Samsung and LG smart TVs include features that collect data about what users watch and sometimes even what they say. These features are often enabled by default, under names like ACR, Viewing Information, and LivePlus.

While they’re intended for improved recommendations or targeted ads, they raise privacy worries. Users concerned with privacy want to disable or limit this tracking.

The steps vary by brand and model, but many controls exist. Adjusting these settings gives you more control over your personal data. Learning the menus well is the first step toward better privacy.

What does ACR tracking mean?

ACR (automatic content recognition) uses audio/video ‘fingerprints’ or watermarks to identify what’s playing on your TV. Because ACR matches short audio/video snippets against a database, it can detect both streaming apps and, on some models, external inputs (HDMI/cable).

The matched data builds viewing profiles used for recommendations and targeted ads, which is why many people choose to turn it off.

Many people dislike this because it feels like constant watching. Turning it off ensures your viewing habits remain private.

Samsung’s Viewing Information explained

On Samsung TVs, the ACR feature is labeled ‘Viewing Information Services’ (or shown in Terms & Privacy). To turn it off: Settings → All Settings → General & Privacy (or Terms & Privacy) → Viewing Information Services (toggle off).

That reduces the amount of viewing data the TV sends for ad personalization and recommendations. This is one of the most important privacy steps for Samsung owners.

Once turned off, your content consumption is no longer constantly monitored. It provides peace of mind for those valuing digital privacy.

LG’s “LivePlus” feature expose

LG’s LivePlus feature exposes the TV to ACR-based tracking and ad personalization. On many webOS models, LivePlus can match what’s on screen (and sometimes external inputs) to serve targeted ads.

It’s usually found under the TV’s privacy or Terms & Policy menus and can be disabled if you prefer less tracking. Turning it off helps to greatly reduce tracking.

It also prevents the collection of habits across different media sources. Many users choose to disable it as soon as they set up their TV.

Disable voice recognition services

Voice recognition features allow you to control your TV with simple commands. However, this requires sending audio data to remote servers for processing. Samsung’s policy clearly notes that voice data may be captured if enabled.

Turning off voice recognition will stop routine audio data from being sent for voice processing, but double-check after firmware updates or resets (and consider physically muting or unplugging microphones if you want absolute assurance).

Opt out personalized advertising

Both Samsung and LG give users the option to opt out of personalized ads. This doesn’t remove ads completely, but stops them from being based on your history. On Samsung TVs, this setting is called Interest-Based Advertising.

LG calls it Personalized Advertising or a similar name in user agreements. Opting out ensures you receive generic ads instead of targeted ones. This reduces how much data the company needs to collect about you. It’s a simple step that makes a big privacy difference.

Turn off viewing information

Viewing Information tracks what you are watching in detail. On Samsung TVs, you can disable this from the Terms & Policies menu. LG TVs have a similar opt-out within User Agreements or General settings. Turning this off means your specific shows, channels, and inputs are no longer tracked.

It reduces the personal data being logged by the TV manufacturer. Some functionality may be slightly reduced, but privacy is greatly improved. This step works hand in hand with disabling ACR features.

Manage privacy in Terms policy

Much of the tracking on smart TVs is hidden in menus labeled “Terms & Policies” or “User Agreements.” In these sections, you may see options like Viewing Information, Voice Information, and Personalized Ads. By toggling off or declining these consents, you regain more privacy.

Many users skip this during setup and leave defaults on. Revisiting these settings helps undo unwanted permissions. Taking five minutes in the menus can save you from years of silent data collection. You always have the right to review and decline optional agreements.

Reset advertising identifier (PSID)

On Samsung TVs, you can reset the advertising identifier (PSID) to break the link to your prior viewing profile: Settings → All Settings → General & Privacy (or Terms & Privacy / Smart Hub → Terms & Privacy) → Reset PSID / Reset advertising ID.

Confirm to create a new ID and reduce longitudinal profiling. LG has similar ad-ID controls on many models (look under Privacy/Terms).

Use non-identifying data settings

Some settings let you still see ads, but in a less intrusive way. Instead of targeted tracking, you’ll receive non-personalized or generic ads. This limits how much personal data the company can use. Turning off interest-based advertising is the key step here.

Even though ads remain, they aren’t linked directly to your behavior. It’s a balance between usability and privacy. Many users choose this middle ground for simplicity and reduced spying.

Block telemetry at network level

DNS blocking (Pi-hole, AdGuard Home) can block telemetry domains and stop some TV data flows at the network level. But be careful: blocking the wrong domains can stop firmware updates or app functionality. If you try this, whitelist streaming domains and test carefully.

Network-level blocking ensures hidden services can’t bypass your preferences. It’s an advanced option, but very effective.

Some tech-savvy users consider it essential. It gives you another layer of privacy outside the TV’s own menus.

Disable home promotion ads

Samsung and LG often display promotions or banners on the home screen. These may appear even after you opt out of personalized ads. Look for settings labeled “Home Promotion” or “Smart Hub Ads” to disable them.

Not every model allows full removal, but many do. Turning them off reduces clutter and tracking at the same time. It makes the home screen cleaner and less distracting. Some users also enjoy faster menu performance afterward.

Cover or disable TV camera

Many smart TVs have cameras built in for video calling or gestures. If you don’t use these, it’s safest to disable or cover them. A simple camera cover or tape can block it physically.

This prevents accidental activation or misuse. Privacy experts often recommend this step regardless of settings. A covered camera is one less way to be spied on. It’s an easy and highly effective privacy safeguard.

Unplug microphone hardware

In addition to settings, some TVs or remotes contain built-in microphones. You can disable the microphone in the menus or physically unplug it if detachable. Muting the remote mic also helps reduce data collection.

This is important if you never use voice assistants. Removing hardware risks eliminates listening completely. It provides one of the strongest guarantees for audio privacy. Many users consider this step essential after setup.

Regular firmware update importance

Manufacturers often update TVs to fix bugs, security flaws, and privacy issues. Sometimes updates also improve how opt-out settings work. Keeping your TV firmware up to date ensures your controls remain effective.

Without updates, your device may ignore privacy choices or stay vulnerable. Updates may also add new privacy options in menus. Checking once a month is usually enough. An updated TV is both safer and more reliable.

Tired of endless buffering on your smart TV? Explore the simple ways to fix smart TV buffering issues.

What to expect afterward?

Once you disable spying features, your TV will stop collecting or sending most personal data. Ads may still appear, but they will be generic rather than targeted. Voice control, suggestions, and promotional content may be reduced or gone.

Streaming apps and HDMI inputs should continue to work normally. Occasionally, updates may reset your choices, and you’ll need to recheck settings. Overall, you’ll enjoy a cleaner, more private experience. For most users, this trade-off is well worth it.

Ready to turn your LG TV into a full Xbox gaming hub? Explore to find out if your LG TV is now an Xbox.

Which step will you try first to protect your privacy on your Samsung or LG TV? Tell us in the comments.

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This slideshow was made with AI assistance and human editing.