How to Stop Your Smart TV From Spying on You: Tested in 2024

It might be surprising to learn that your TV keeps tabs on what you do or watch. Smart TVs can be hacked and used as spying devices. They also collect your personal data through TV cameras and microphones and send them to advertisers.

But stopping a Smart TV from spying on you isn’t that challenging if you follow the right guide. A VPN protects your sensitive information from snoops. My team and I tested 60+ services to find the best choices for your Smart TV (like Samsung TV and TCL Smart TV). They offer strong encryption and security protocols to keep your network safe.

My top recommendation is to use a reliable VPN like ExpressVPN. It protects your devices against cyber threats and delivers robust security features to safeguard your online activity. Plus, the service provides a vast server network and impressive speeds for accessing your favorite platforms buffer-free. You can try ExpressVPN without risk as it’s backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee. So, getting a refund is easy if you’re not 100% happy with it.

Try the Best VPN for Smart TVs Now

Why You Need a VPN to Stop Your Smart TV From Spying on You

Smart TVs are great for watching on-demand shows and movies on a big screen. They come with built-in apps that save you some money on buying streaming devices like Roku or Amazon Fire Stick. However, your TV might be spying on you and your streaming activity. A VPN protects your online data and keeps your Smart TV from spying by:

• Encrypting your network — A premium service safeguards your connection with AES 256-bit encryption. It scrambles your data and prevents third parties from intercepting it. This is essential as most Smart TV brands don’t encrypt the voice recordings they collect (even if they use encryption).
• Blocking annoying ads and trackers — Your Smart TV is potentially susceptible to malware and spyware. VPNs protect your Smart TV from cyber threats by blocking or warning against malicious ads and trackers.
• Masking your IP address — A VPN hides your actual IP and makes it seem like you’re browsing from a different country. This prevents your location information from being leaked. Plus, you get access to an extensive server network that lets you unblock geo-restricted content.

Premium VPNs also have impressive speeds to watch shows in 4K without buffering. Besides, unlimited bandwidth allows you to stream, download, and browse without hitting any data caps.

Ways Your Smart TV Can Spy on You

Most Smart TV manufacturers monitor your streaming activity and other personal info to share with third parties. Plus, data gathering from voice activation devices and cross-device tracking can leak your private information to hackers and snoops.

A few examples of spying came to light in 2015 and drew a lot of attention to Samsung’s “always-listening” TVs. In 2016 it was revealed that Samsung TVs sent unencrypted user-specific voice commands (personal or other sensitive data) to third parties for processing. In particular, the PN60F8500 model was listening and watching with the built-in microphone and camera.

Even the FBI warns that Smart TVs (including Samsung) can be spying on users

Vizio was also caught collecting and selling data in 2017 without asking users for permission. It was even fined by the Federal Trade Commission (FTA). A lawsuit was filed, and the situation was resolved, but Vizio could still track you if you accepted the privacy policies.

In 2018, Sony Bravia TVs had a bug that allowed anyone to connect to the same local network and access the TV remotely without authentication. LG Smart TVs were found to be transmitting data without user permission as well.

So, understanding how Smart TVs spy on you is essential in keeping your information safe. Here are the multiple ways your Smart TV can spy on you:

• ACR — Automatic Content Recognition (ACR) is a Smart TV technology that monitors your usage information. It even tracks how long you spend watching TV, the channels you prefer, and the commercials you watch. ACR monitors streaming boxes, cable TV, over-the-air TV (OTA), DVD players, and Blu-Rays. However, it might be useful to determine what shows you like and recommend similar ones.
• Microphones — Most, if not all, Smart TVs come with a microphone array that listens to user commands. However, this can be used for spying by actively listening to your conversations and sending the data for processing to third parties.
• Cameras — Another way Smart TVs can access your personal information is by recording you. Although, this is only an issue if your TV is equipped with a camera module. The facial recognition and gesture control features can also be used to record and collect your private information.

One more unconventional way of spying on you with a Smart TV is by targeting your router. This means a hacker can access your entire network (including Smart TVs) to compromise your connection and get his hands on your sensitive information. That’s why changing your password and setting up a guest network are important. Besides, it’s recommended to apply software updates and opt out of web tracking when it’s offered.

Similar to websites, apps and browsers on Smart TVs use cookies and pixel-tracking technologies to monitor your activity. For example, Netflix knows your location, browser type, email address, and payment info.

Best VPNs to Stop Your Smart TV From Spying on You - Full Analysis (Updated in 2024)

All my shortlisted VPNs help you avoid Smart TV spying. They offer robust AES 256-bit encryption and multiple security protocols to keep your connection safe. You also get fast servers for watching shows in 4K without buffering and lag-free online gaming.

These VPNs are easy to install, support multiple simultaneous device connections, and come with reliable 24/7 live chat support. Best of all, a trustworthy money-back policy backs each service so you can try them with confidence.

1. ExpressVPN — Military-Grade Encryption to Keep You Safe From Smart TV Spying

Editor’s Choice Editor’s Choice Try Risk-Free for 30 Days
Tested April 2024

Works With:

Netflix Disney+ APV HBO Max

Hulu BBC iPlayer Sky More

Try ExpressVPN >

www.ExpressVPN.com

ExpressVPN comes with military-grade encryption, securing your Smart TV from hackers. You also get Network Lock (a kill switch) which disconnects your internet connection if the VPN tunnel drops, but it didn’t happen to me. I ran several IP/DNS leak tests, and ExpressVPN successfully passed them all. So my actual location wasn’t revealed.

The service is based in the privacy-friendly British Virgin Islands, outside the 5/9/14 Eyes Alliances — data-sharing countries. RAM-only servers (TrustedServer tech) wipe your sensitive information with every reboot. Thanks to a strict no-logs policy, your Smart TV data isn’t stored or shared with third parties.

An extensive server network helps you unblock your favorite content on your Smart TV without being geo-restricted. To access your Netflix US, Hulu, and Disney+ accounts abroad, you need a US IP. ExpressVPN has servers in 24 US locations and 105 countries worldwide to easily unblock your streaming subscriptions no matter where you are.

You get impressive data transfer speeds for streaming shows on your Smart TV in 4K. While testing the US servers, I recorded an average download speed of 168.7Mbps (a drop of only 6.2%) on my 180Mbps base connection. Seamless UHD streaming only requires 25Mbps.

MediaStreamer’s Smart DNS lets you bypass geo-blocks on devices that don't support a VPN. You can set the DNS on your Smart TVs and streaming sticks, like Apple TV, Roku, and Amazon Fire Stick. Just bear in mind this method doesn’t provide protection. There’s a native app for Android TV for both security and unblocking.

I contacted support via 24/7 live chat to set up the service on my router to secure my LG TV, and received an easy-to-follow guide. The app works with many operating systems (can also be set up on routers) and covers up to 8 devices simultaneously.

One thing to note about ExpressVPN is the expensive subscription rates starting at $6.67/month. Luckily, ExpressVPN offers generous discounts that help you save some money. I subscribed to the 12-month plan and got 49% off with a bonus of 3 extra months for free.

Better yet, the service is backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee. So, getting a refund is hassle-free if you’re not entirely impressed. I applied for it using the live chat tool and answered only a few questions about why I was leaving. The request was quickly approved, and the money was transferred back to my PayPal wallet in just 2 days.

2. CyberGhost — Optimized Server Network to Access Geo-Blocked Content On Your Smart TV

Works With:

Netflix Disney+ APV HBO Max

Hulu BBC iPlayer Sky More

Try CyberGhost VPN >

www.cyberghostvpn.com

CyberGhost offers 11,690 servers in 100 countries to quickly bypass geo-restrictions. It has several streaming-optimized servers for platforms like Netflix and Hulu on the Android TV and Fire Stick app for an even safer streaming experience. While testing CyberGhost’s US servers, I easily accessed my Hulu account from abroad and watched my favorite shows.

The app safeguards your information on Smart TVs with 256-bit encryption and a strict no-logs policy. Automatic WiFi protection immediately activates the VPN tunnel while connecting to a new hotspot — it can be enabled in the settings menu. On other devices, a kill switch secures your data from accidental exposure. It’s also possible to use independently-operated NoSpy servers (which require an extra fee) for added privacy.

Like ExpressVPN, the service is located outside the 14 Eyes Alliance jurisdiction (in Romania). CyberGhost has a dedicated ad blocker that keeps annoying ads and trackers at bay. So, you can stream shows online and watch videos on YouTube without being bombarded with ads and pop-ups (some of which might contain malicious links).

High-speed connections allow seamless streaming on your Smart TV and let you watch shows in UHD without interruptions. I got an average speed of 127.3Mbps when I connected to a US server. The far-away locations also worked without any issues.

The VPN is compatible with many devices, including Smart TVs (like Android TV), routers, Amazon Fire Stick, and Roku. The minimal UI is great for beginners. Installing the VPN on my Android TV took me less than 10 minutes. Besides, there’s a 24/7 live chat tool for fast customer support assistance and helpful guides — for example, on configuring SmartDNS on your Apple TV. You can use the VPN on up to 7 devices at the same time.

An issue is that the monthly subscriptions are costly and offer shorter money-back guarantees. However, the long-term plans have extended refund periods and save you some money. CyberGhost plans start at just $2.03/month. I recommend the 2-year option as it is the most budget-friendly in the long run.

With a trustworthy 45-day money-back guarantee, you can try CyberGhost for free. I filled up the online form, and my request was processed instantly. The refund was credited to my bank account after 3 days.

3. Private Internet Access — Fast Speeds for 4K Streaming Using Your Smart TV

Works With:

Netflix Disney+ APV HBO Max

Hulu BBC iPlayer Sky More

Try Private Internet Access >

www.PrivateInternetAccess.com

PIA provides fast speeds to watch 4K movies on your Smart TV while staying safe. Unlimited bandwidth lets you stream and torrent without limits. While testing PIA’s nearby servers (via router setup), I had low ping on my PS5. So, you can connect your console to your Smart TV and have a safe, lag-free gaming experience.

There are lots of servers in 90 countries to view your favorite content on a Smart TV while on vacation (by mirroring your screen for example). This let me watch Manhunt (Deadly Games) using my Netflix US account without issues. Like CyberGhost, you also get to choose from a list of streaming-optimized servers on other devices.

User-friendly guides allow you to quickly set up PIA on your Smart TV via your router. You can also use Smart DNS (for unblocking), but without the VPN protection. Customer support is available via 24/7 live chat if you ever get stuck. PIA also supports Unlimited devices simultaneously.

AES 256-bit encryption secures your Smart TV data from hackers. I checked the VPN for DNS/IP leaks, and my location data wasn’t exposed. The service safeguards against malicious websites and spying on other devices through the built-in ad and malware blocker (MACE). Plus, an automatic kill switch adds to this protection.

It was disappointing to see that PIA is headquartered in the US (the center of the 5 Eyes Alliance). However, the VPN follows a strict no-logs policy, meaning your private information isn’t collected or shared even with the US authorities.

You can subscribe to PIA for only $2.03/month. All plans come with the same features; that’s why I recommend the 3-year option which offers the best value for money.

A 30-day money-back guarantee backs your experience, so getting a refund is straightforward. I requested a refund through email and told the customer support rep why I was leaving. The request was processed in a minute, and the money was transferred to my credit card in just 5 days.

How to Stop Your Smart TV From Spying on You — 5 Tried-And-Tested Methods

Stopping your Smart TV from spying on you isn’t that challenging if you follow the methods listed below. This way, you can easily safeguard your online information against prying eyes.

1. Use a VPN Service

VPN is one of the best ways to secure your private information. You get robust security and privacy features (like AES 256-bit encryption, leak protection, and a no-logs policy) that keep hackers and snoops at bay.

Unblocking the content you want is easy with a VPN that offers a vast server network and has fast speeds for UHD streaming. ExpressVPN is my top choice for protecting your sensitive data on a Smart TV since all its apps have military-grade encryption to secure your Smart TV connection. You can try ExpressVPN risk-free as it’s backed by a trustworthy money-back guarantee.

2. Disable ACR Technology:

ACR tech is one of the primary ways to capture your streaming habits and send private data for processing to third parties. So, disabling ACR helps you keep your streaming records safe from leaks.

For Samsung TVs

Follow the steps below to disable ACR on your Samsung TV privacy settings.

Older Samsung TV models (2014-2016)

• Head to the Smart Hub menu and open the Settings
• Click on the Support tab and select Terms & Policy.
• Go to SyncPlus and Marketing and disable it.

Newer Samsung TV models (after 2017)

• Head to the Settings page.
• Go to the Support tab and scroll down to Terms and Policies.
• Turn off the Viewing Information Services option and Interest-Based Advertising to stop ACR and personalized ads.

For LG TVs

Follow the steps below to disable ACR on your LG TV.

• Go to Settings and scroll down till you find the General
• Look for LivePlus and turn it off.
• Head back to General and select the User Agreements
• Turn off Personal Advertising.

For Sony TVs

Follow the steps below to disable ACR on your Sony TV.

• Head to the Settings page and look for the Initial Setup
• Click on the Don’t change button when you see the network change pop-up.
• Go to the Sony Bravia policy page and agree to it.
• On the right side of the page, click on the Disable button (the last option).
• Click the Disable button again to turn off the ACR tech.

For Vizio TVs

Follow the steps below to disable ACR on your Vizio TV.

Older Vizio TV models (2014-2016)

• Head to the System settings panel and look for Reset & Admin.
• Look for Smart Interactivity and disable the tracking.

Newer Vizio TV models (after 2017)

• Go to the System settings option and select Reset & Admin.
• Look for Viewing Data and turn it off. This will remove all ACR tracking capabilities.

For Streaming Devices:

Follow the steps below to disable ACR on your streaming devices.

Amazon Fire TV and Chromecast

• Head to the Settings panel and select the System
• Click on Interest-Based Ads and turn it off.

Roku

• Head on to Settings and then the System
• Look for Privacy and turn on the Limit Ad Tracking
• Go to Smart TV Experience and disable Use Information for TV Inputs to remove the ACR feature.

Apple TV

• Head to General or Settings and then the Privacy or General
• Disable the Send Data to Apple

For Samba TV

Samba TV is a tracking layer on your TV that monitors what your TV is playing, regardless of the source. This tool can also connect to other devices on your network to spy on you and send you targeted ads. You can find Samba TV’s policies in the following TV brands and disable them to keep you safe:

• Element
• Philips
• Sanyo
• Seiki
• Sharp
• Sony
• TCL
• Toshiba
• Westinghouse

It’s possible to opt-out of Samba TV ACR anytime by following the steps below:

• Find the Interactive TV Service option in your TV’s Settings
• Enable the Limit Ad Tracking option from the Privacy

3. Disable Cameras and Microphones

Another way to get rid of harmful spying from your Smart TVs is by disabling the microphone and camera arrays. This helps you remove your TV's voice and video tracking capabilities and keep your sensitive information safe.

For Samsung TVs

Follow the steps below to disable cameras and microphones on your Samsung TV.

Older Samsung TV models (2014-2016)

• Look for the Smart Hub menu and open Settings.
• Select the Smart Features button, scroll down to find Voice Recognition, and turn it off.

Newer Samsung TV models (after 2017)

• Head to the main menu and open Settings.
• Go to the Support tab and scroll down to find Terms and Policies.
• Turn off Voice Recognition Services to disable the microphones and cameras.

For LG TVs

Follow the steps below to disable cameras and microphones on your LG TV.

• Head to the Main Menu and open Settings from the top right-hand corner.
• Now, go to All Settings, scroll down and click on the General
• Find User Agreements (which might be located in the About this TV tab) and disable the Voice Information

For Sony and Vizio TVs

Sony and Vizio don’t offer TV options that come with built-in microphones or cameras. However, there are external cameras available on the market. So, if you have one, leave the device unplugged.

4. Opt Out of Data Collection Policies

One of the major Smart TV players, Samsung, claims to collect and share user data in its privacy policies. Your personal information can get leaked online or used unfairly against you if you’re not careful.

Your personal information is sent to affiliate companies or third-party services for further processing

You can opt out of the data-gathering policies of all Smart TV manufacturers. This means that no unencrypted information is sent to companies for further research or processing.

For Samsung TVs

While setting up your new Samsung TV, you should disagree with Samsung TV privacy settings or policies.

• Viewing Information Services — Disabling it stops Samsung’s ACR feature from recording your streaming data.
• Interest-Based Advertisement Services — You can disable it to stop Samsung from showing you relevant ads based on your user profile.
• Voice Recognition — Stopping this option allows your voice data to be safe from being collected. However, you can’t use any voice recognition feature on your Smart TV.

For LG TVs

When setting up your LG Smart TV, it’s best to disagree with the following policies for better privacy.

• Voice Information policy — Stops your audio data from being collected by the voice recognition tool LG implements on their Smart TVs.
• Interest-Based Advertisement policy — You can deactivate it to stop your viewing information from being collected in order to show you relevant ads and pop-ups.
• Live Plus — Disabling it turns off LG’s ACR software.

Additionally, when using LG Channels, LG's complimentary streaming service, you will be prompted to consent to LG's privacy policy and terms of use. This agreement permits Pluto TV and Xumo to access your viewing and device-related data. However, there is an option to click on the "Do Not Sell My Information" button, which prevents these companies from selling your user data.

For Sony TVs

When you set up your Sony Smart TV settings, you’re prompted to review 3 privacy policies from Google, Samba TV, and Sony. So, disabling them lets you stay safe from unnecessary Smart TV privacy settings:

• Google — Sony uses the Android TV system, which means you must agree to Google’s policy to start using the TV. However, you can use a VPN service like ExpressVPN to keep you safe from leaks or accidental exposure.
• Samba TV — It’s possible to disagree with Samba TV’s policy for preventing your activity from being tracked and sent to third parties.
• Sony — Disagreeing with Sony’s policy helps you keep your information private. But you won’t be able to use any Smart TV features if you do so.

Whether you get an older Sony TV (Android TV) or a newer one that uses the Google TV platform, you have to agree to the Google privacy policy. Even though Google says this platform doesn’t use ACR technology to capture specific content, most TV brands have their own privacy policies.

You can disagree with the Sony Bravia policy if you don’t want to use any Smart TV features at all. However, if your Sony TV is from 2014 or earlier, you must select Disable Upload Data to block ACR. Remember, reputable VPNs like ExpressVPN have a genuine no-logs policy, so I’d recommend using this as an extra layer of protection if you’re not sure which Smart TV policies to agree to.

For Vizio TVs

When setting up your new Vizio TV, it’s essential to disagree with the ACR policy to help keep your viewer information private. The policies are labeled as the following:

• Viewing Data
• Smart Interactivity (Activity Data)

Vizio TVs use the SmartCast smart TV system, which is based on Google’s Chromecast technology. So its T&Cs consist of four items: Vizio Terms of Service, Vizio Privacy Policy, Google Terms of Service, and Google Privacy Policy. You have the option to skip it, but if you do so, you can’t use SmartCast. If you accept, you’ll see options for Viewing Data (Vizio’s ACR) and Activity Data, which monitor and collect your information.

For Samba TVs (on mobile devices)

Apple (iPhone, iPad, iPod Touch)

• Go to Settings > Privacy & Security > Apple Advertising
• Toggle off Personalized Ads

Android smartphones

• Go to Settings > Google > Ads
• Toggle on Opt out of Ads Personalization

The Android instructions might vary depending on the model and brand.

5. Disable the Internet Connection

Disabling the internet connection is the easiest way to get all spying issues away from your TV. Just hop into your Smart TV settings and disable the WiFi/Ethernet internet connection.This way, you make sure that all your information is offline and not being forwarded to third parties. As a last-resort measure, you can turn off Smart TV to shut down all potential TV spyware.

However, note that you will lose all online streaming capabilities on your Smart TV, and you need to find a workaround to watch your favorite shows or movies. Plus, it’s a good idea to use a VPN to keep your connection private.

FAQs on Stopping Your Smart TV From Spying on You

Is it legal to stop Smart TVs from collecting data?

Yes, it’s legal to stop Smart TVs from gathering your usage information. This helps you keep your data private and safe from leaks and accidental exposure. A reliable VPN with robust privacy features lets you stay safe no matter what Smart TV you use.

How do I stop someone from connecting to my Smart TV?

Using an encrypted network connection, you can stop anyone from connecting to your Smart TV. It keeps you safe from hackers and snoops looking to hack your TV and record your activity. Get robust encryption and security protocols using a premium VPN like ExpressVPN.

How can I tell if my Smart TV has been hacked?

The easiest way to tell if your Smart TV has been hacked is by checking the bugs or errors you face. Your Smart TV’s camera/microphone icon popping up suddenly or seeing random volume changes are great indicators of TV tampering. A premium VPN keeps your information safe from hackers or snoops online.

Here are some other pointers to look out for if you suspect your Smart TV has been hacked:

• Check if there are unfamiliar video files in your folders.
• Inspect your device for unusual app usage.
• Be on the lookout for random apps/software to stay safe from TV spyware.

Are streaming services gathering my data too?

Yes, streaming platforms monitor and record your data. Platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney+ track your streaming habits to recommend other things to watch. This information can get leaked and be used by hackers. However, you can connect to a VPN tunnel to encrypt your connection and stay safe from accidental data exposure.

What does your TV do with the data?

TV manufacturers claim to use your data for personalization, targeted ads, and quality of life features. But, it's common for companies to sell your user information to third parties, such as advertising companies or streaming services, to make a profit. So, disabling activity tracking and using a VPN to keep you safe from exposure is essential for private online connection.

Does my Smart TV have a camera, and where is it?

Some TVs include a camera for video calling purposes. See if your Smart TV model has a built-in camera by checking under the bezels. You can also look it up online. Most cameras are located in the middle-top section of your TV. So, you can disable the camera module from the settings menu or physically locate it and cover it up with tape.

Can I use my Smart TV as a browser and my smartphone as a TV remote?

Yes, your Smart TV can be used as a browser. However, using your smartphone as a TV remote requires installing the Google TV app on your device. You can find it in the app store and install it easily. Set up a VPN service and keep your connection safeguarded from cyber threats to bring an extra layer of security to your TV.

Can someone see me through my Smart TV?

Yes, if your Smart TV is compromised or hacked, then it can be used to spy on you. Smart TVs are also known to transmit unencrypted user data to third parties for processing. So, a good way to protect yourself is by disabling the camera and using a VPN to keep your connection safe.

Can I use a free VPN to stop my Smart TV from spying on me?

You can, but it’s not recommended. Free services usually don’t offer the best security or privacy features. They also limit your speeds and have bad encryption, so finding a free VPN to stop your smart TV from spying on you might be difficult. A premium, low-cost VPN with a money-back guarantee is a better alternative for keeping your TV safe from hackers and data-logging platforms.

Some free VPNs monitor and sell your sensitive information to make a profit. Others have even been caught embedding malware, trackers, and spyware with their apps. So, it’s always a safer option to use a premium VPN instead.

Stop Your Smart TV From Spying on You Now

Stopping your Smart TV from spying on you is hassle-free if you follow the right guide. There are several ways to do it — like installing a VPN and deactivating data-logging policies. Plus, you can convert your Smart TV to a “dumb” TV by disconnecting it from the internet. Just make sure you’re comfortable losing all the Smart TV features.

ExpressVPN is my top choice for online security and privacy. It offers military-grade encryption and a no-logs policy to keep your data confidential. Besides, it comes with an extensive server network and impressive speeds to access the content you need without interruptions. You can try ExpressVPN risk-free, as it's backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee. So, getting a refund is easy if the service isn’t suitable for you.

To summarize, the best VPNs for stopping your smart TV from spying on you are…

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