TV Spyware

Your brand new smart TV might be watching you as much as you're watching it. A feature called Automatic Content Recognition (ACR), often pre-loaded on new TVs, collects detailed data on your viewing habits, raising privacy concerns for many consumers. 
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ACR: What Your TV Knows About You:

ACR technology identifies what's playing on your screen, whether it's from streaming services, cable TV, video games, or even commercials. It tracks not only what you watch, but also how long you watch it. This includes whether you finish shows, how quickly you watch sequels, if you change channels during commercials, and your preferred streaming services. Essentially, ACR builds a detailed profile of your viewing behavior. Surprised? Not really…

Who's Collecting Your Data?

The data collected by ACR goes to various entities. Initially, it's gathered by your TV manufacturer (e.g., Samsung, Sony, LG, Vizio), to personalize recommendations within the TV's operating system (like webOS or Tizen). However, the data often goes beyond the manufacturer. Streaming services (Netflix, Disney+), advertisers, marketing agencies, and data analytics firms can also access this information. Essentially, anyone who can profit from knowing your viewing preferences can potentially gain access to your ACR data.

Disabling ACR: A Challenge, But Possible:

While manufacturers don't make it easy, disabling ACR is possible. The settings are often buried within menus and labeled differently depending on the TV brand. Look for options related to "Privacy," "User Agreements," or "Viewing Data." The specific terminology can vary, so look for anything related to tracking your screen or viewing habits.

Finding the Setting:

Carefully examine privacy options and disable anything that involves tracking what you watch. If you're struggling to find the setting, search online for instructions specific to your TV manufacturer and model.

Example: Disabling ACR on Samsung TVs:

1. Go to Settings.
2. Click on General & Privacy.
3. Select Terms & Privacy.
4. Find Viewing Information Services.
5. Deselect "I agree."
6. Consider de-selecting other privacy options, like "Internet-Based Advertisement Service."

Beware the Warnings:
When you disable ACR, your TV might display warnings about reduced user experience. Don't be deterred. While personalized recommendations might be affected, the core functionality of your TV will remain intact.

Protecting Your Privacy:
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ACR is likely enabled by default on most new smart TVs. It's crucial to check your TV's privacy settings and disable ACR if you're concerned about your viewing data being collected and shared. Taking control of your privacy is more important than ever in our increasingly connected world.

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