LG Electronics’ US unit settles Texas smart TV privacy lawsuit

LG Electronics USA has agreed to settle a privacy lawsuit filed by the Texas attorney general's office regarding its smart TVs. The settlement requires the company to obtain explicit user consent before collecting viewing data through automated content recognition technology. Additionally, LG must implement a pop-up disclosure on its smart TVs that explains data collection practices and provides a clear opt-out option. The agreement also explicitly prohibits the transfer of viewing data to the Chinese Communist Party. LG admitted no liability or wrongdoing under the terms of the settlement. Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton stated that the agreement protects consumers from unlawful surveillance, emphasizing that "no electronics company should be collecting consumers’ data and exposing Texans to potential surveillance by the Chinese government." LG Electronics USA emphasized its commitment to consumer privacy, noting that it had worked with the state to strengthen its existing practices regarding consent. The lawsuit was part of a broader action by Texas against major TV manufacturers for secretly tracking viewing habits. While Samsung Electronics America reached a similar settlement in February, cases against Sony, TCL, and Hisense remain pending.

(Source：The Korea Herald)