Can Your Smart TV Spy on You?

In today’s living room, a smart TV is much more than just a screen for watching cable or streaming video. It connects to the internet, runs apps, accepts voice commands, and even supports video calls. However, all these conveniences come with added risks: hackers can exploit device vulnerabilities for their own gain. Plus, the very concept of “smart TV” raises a common question: “Can my TV eavesdrop on or spy on me?”

It’s no secret that recent years have seen numerous scandals involving data leaks, hacker activity, and government surveillance programs. TV manufacturers themselves have fueled the fire, as it turns out they often collect information about your viewing habits and share it with advertisers. The line between legitimate marketing research and invasion of privacy is blurry. But one thing is clear: if a device is connected to the internet and has a camera or microphone, there’s a potential threat to your privacy.

This article will explain how spying can occur, why smart TVs are a target for hackers, and-most importantly-how to protect yourself and your family from these risks.

Why Are Smart TVs Vulnerable?

A smart TV is essentially a computer with its own operating system and a suite of services. Platforms like Android TV, Tizen (Samsung), webOS (LG), Roku OS, and others offer rich functionality, but like any software, they can have vulnerabilities. Features such as voice control, video conferencing, and smartphone integration make usage more convenient, but also open new doors for attackers:

• Access to microphone and camera: Some TVs allow video calls and voice commands. Without proper protection, hackers can remotely activate the mic or camera, turning your home into a “reality show.”
• Collection and sale of user data: TV manufacturers sometimes monitor your viewing and share this information with advertisers. The most famous case was Vizio’s 2017 fine for collecting viewer data without consent.
• Vulnerable routers and network devices: Your smart TV shares the same internet connection as your other gadgets. If your router is poorly secured or uses simple passwords, it’s easier for attackers to breach your network and target your TV.
• Compatibility with USB drives and third-party apps: Installing files from flash drives or unofficial sources (especially on Android TV) increases the risk of introducing trojans or other malware.

In short, everything that makes a TV “smart” and “connected” can also become an entry point for hackers, government agencies, or even manufacturers seeking to profit from your data.

Real Threats: From Simple Spying to Botnets

Spying via Camera and Microphone

Microphones are now standard in most modern gadgets, and smart TVs are no exception. Voice assistants make control easier, but also create opportunities for hackers to secretly activate “listening” features. For example, WikiLeaks published materials about a secret program called Weeping Angel, which targeted Samsung smart TVs. In “fake off” mode, the device continued recording audio and transmitting data via Wi-Fi. Similar tools could be used by other hacker groups or government agencies.

Manufacturer Involvement

Not all “spying” is outright criminal. Some manufacturers build data collection mechanisms into their firmware to analyze user habits and sell this data to advertising partners. The problem is that these practices are often poorly disclosed and don’t get true user consent.

Hacks via Vulnerable Network Devices

If your smart TV is connected to an old router with a default password, attackers can gain access with even basic tools. There have been cases where cable boxes or Wi-Fi routers were mass-exploited by hackers who installed botnet software (like Mirai). These networks of infected devices are used for DDoS attacks and other operations that can endanger owners.

Supply Chain Attacks

In theory, a smart TV can be compromised at the manufacturing level-a so-called supply chain attack. Rare, but it has happened that a trojan was embedded in official firmware at the factory. Such cases can affect entire batches of devices and are often discovered only after user complaints or independent cybersecurity research.

New Methods of “Smart” Spying

• CovertBand: Researchers at the University of Washington showed that with special “almost inaudible” sounds (“chirp” signals), it’s possible to track people’s movement in a room. If a TV has a sound system and microphone, attackers could theoretically turn it into a low-level sonar “radar.”
• Radio signals and browser vulnerabilities: Some smart TVs have built-in browsers with security holes. Hackers can transmit code via weakly protected radio signals, “capturing” multiple devices within range.
• Pattern recognition algorithms: Segments of video streams (like Netflix or YouTube), even when encrypted, can be analyzed by studying packet frequency and volume. This way, attackers can figure out what you’re watching without direct hacking.

Why Trojans and Other Malware Are Dangerous for Smart TVs

Infecting a TV with a trojan or other malware can lead to several consequences:

• Theft of personal data: Logins, passwords for streaming services or social networks, and payment data (if you buy movies directly) can all fall into the wrong hands.
• Spying: Built-in cameras and microphones can be used to watch and listen. In the worst case, a hacker gets a “live stream” from your living room.
• Botnet: Your TV becomes a “zombie” participating in DDoS attacks. Victims often don’t notice until performance or network speed drops.
• Unwanted settings changes: Attackers can change channels, volume, install rogue apps, or even encrypt files and demand ransom.
• Marketing data collection: If it’s the manufacturer, not hackers, you may become the target of aggressive ads and behavioral analysis.

While TVs rarely store as much critical data as smartphones or computers, hacking them can give attackers a foothold in your home network and access to other devices. The danger should not be underestimated.

How Manufacturers “Legitimately” Track Users

In the name of convenience (voice control, personalized recommendations), manufacturers add telemetry collection features. In some smart TVs, these mechanisms are enabled by default. There have been cases where manufacturers or advertisers exploit these features to track preferences and sell viewer data:

• Collecting and reselling anonymized data about what you watch
• Linking data to your IP address or other identifiers, revealing your ISP and approximate location
• Creating behavioral profiles for targeted advertising

Most of the time, these actions are legal and described in lengthy “User Agreements,” but few people read them carefully. The ethical questions remain, as users are often unaware of exactly what data is collected, how it’s processed, and who it’s sold to.

Smart TV Security Tips

It’s nearly impossible to give up “smart” features entirely today, so it makes sense to focus on steps that significantly reduce risks and protect your privacy. Here are eight key recommendations, including specific steps for configuring your TV and home network:

1. Regularly update your software: TV and app manufacturers periodically release updates that fix vulnerabilities and improve security. Install updates as soon as you see notifications.
2. Secure your router: Set a strong password, disable WPS and unused features, and use the built-in firewall if available. If your router is over five years old, consider upgrading.
3. Use official apps and safe sources: Download software only from official stores (Google Play, Samsung Store, LG Content Store, etc.). If you must install an APK from elsewhere, scan it with antivirus software and check reviews first.
4. Disable or limit camera and microphone access: If you don’t use voice commands or video calls, turn them off in settings. Physically cover the camera lens with opaque tape or use a slider cover when not in use.
5. Limit unnecessary internet access on your TV: If your model is outdated or you’re unsure of its security, disconnect Wi-Fi and use a separate streaming stick (Chromecast, Fire TV, etc.), which often receive more frequent security updates.
6. Review user agreement terms: When setting up your TV or after an update, take time to read what data is collected. Sometimes you can opt out of certain items without losing critical features.
7. Change default passwords and monitor settings: Many devices (cable boxes, smart boxes) have the same default password. Change it immediately to something stronger. This applies to any “smart” gadget in your home.
8. Protect yourself with antivirus solutions: While classic antivirus for TVs is rare, you can protect your computer and smartphone (used to download files). Also, use comprehensive solutions (like Kaspersky Premium or similar) to maintain cybersecurity across your home network.

Notable Threats and “Spy” Examples

• Vizio and user data collection: In 2017, Vizio was fined $2.2 million for collecting viewer data and selling it to third parties without proper user notification. This high-profile case drew public attention, but doesn’t mean other manufacturers are completely innocent.
• Set-top box vulnerabilities and “serial” passwords: Many cable operators and IPTV providers used to use identical passwords and “backdoors” in their boxes. Hackers easily accessed thousands of devices, creating large networks for DDoS attacks and data theft. The situation is improving, but old equipment is still at risk.
• Mirai and IoT botnets: The infamous Mirai botnet “recruited” household IoT devices: cameras, routers, and even smart TVs. Using weak or default passwords, Mirai infiltrated systems and consolidated infected devices into a single network, resulting in massive DDoS attacks that impacted internet infrastructure.
• Weeping Angel: The WikiLeaks-exposed Weeping Angel program targeted Samsung Smart TVs, allowing agencies to record audio via the microphone even when the TV appeared to be in “sleep” mode. The “sleep” was just a simulation-sensors remained active.

What to Do If You Suspect a Hack

If your TV starts acting strangely (switching channels on its own, rebooting, showing odd pop-ups), you should:

• Restart or reset to factory settings (after saving important data)
• Install all available firmware updates
• Check your router: change the password, update firmware, disable unnecessary features
• Review installed apps and remove anything suspicious
• Contact the manufacturer’s or provider’s support. Some have official instructions for checking devices for malware.

Most importantly, don’t ignore odd behavior. Even if it turns out to be a simple glitch, it’s better to be safe than to fall victim to silent spying.

Conclusion

Smart TVs offer many benefits: easy access to streaming platforms, video calls, and games. But they also bring new risks-from factory-installed trojans to covert surveillance in your own home. Manufacturers don’t always act in the buyer’s best interest, and hackers are actively searching for vulnerable devices to use in cyberattacks or data collection.

The main takeaway: a smart TV is a full-fledged computer running an operating system, and you should treat it as such. Keep firmware updated, use only trusted sources for apps, secure your router with strong passwords, and turn off the camera and microphone when not needed. If you’re concerned about your TV’s security, disconnect it from the network and use separate devices like streaming sticks for easier updates and better control.

Ultimately, in the era of the “smart home,” you are responsible for your own digital hygiene. Manufacturers and providers are improving security, but hacking and spying are still real threats. A thoughtful approach and awareness of potential risks will help you enjoy all the benefits of smart TVs without falling victim to hackers or unwanted data collection.