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23 September 2026

Safer binge nights

Discover how to secure your smart TV and keep your viewing habits private

Safer binge nights

Smart TVs have become a staple in many households, offering a wide range of entertainment options and features. However, many consumers are unaware that their smart TVs are tracking their viewing habits, voice, and device data. This raises concerns about privacy and data protection. In this article, we will explore how smart TVs track user data and provide steps to opt-out of data collection.

The Automatic Content Recognition (ACR) technology used in smart TVs allows them to track what users are watching, including the channel, program, and even the ads displayed. This information is then used to deliver targeted advertisements and provide personalized recommendations. While this may seem convenient, it also means that users are being monitored and their viewing habits are being shared with third-party companies.

How to Opt-Out of Data Collection

To protect your privacy you can take several steps to opt-out of data collection on your smart TV. First, check your TV’s settings menu for options related to ACR and data tracking. Look for settings such as

Author

Jordan Wells

Jordan Wells covers Pride, policy and the cultural arc with equal seriousness. Reports on legislation, films, and the writers reshaping queer narrative today.