Tech expert: it's a problem when smart devices refuse to stop listening
Estonian tech expert Glen Pilvre explains why data collection by smart devices isn't inherently dangerous, but becomes an issue when devices ignore users' attempts to stop it.
Technology expert Glen Pilvre discussed on the radio program "Vikerhommik" a recent case in which the YouTube channel Gamers Nexus, together with cybersecurity researchers from Level1Techs, revealed that LG smart TVs are extensively collecting user data, recording activity in the room and transmitting it to external servers. The researchers found the devices persistent in this behavior — even disconnecting a TV from the internet wasn't enough, since it stored the collected data in memory and sent it out as soon as the connection was restored.
According to Pilvre, such data is mainly gathered to build a profile of a person's habits in order to serve targeted advertising. "It doesn't mean that at some point people in uniform will show up and take you away," he said, adding that targeted ads often mean people end up seeing offers that genuinely interest them, such as being shown rubber boots instead of sandals when that's what they wanted.
A murky legal area
Pilvre noted that the scandal surrounding LG touches on a fairly gray legal zone, and most reported incidents occurred in the United States, where laws may differ from those in Europe. LG has rejected the accusations, insisting its TVs operate lawfully and respond only to direct user commands. Pilvre suggested the matter could end up in court, and if LG is found innocent, the company would hold a strong position. Still, he said there is no reason to distrust the researchers, since "there's no smoke without fire."
Not just televisions
Pilvre pointed out that smart TVs are far from the only devices tracking user habits — phones and computers do the same. He mentioned that many people have noticed how, shortly after discussing a product with someone, related advertising appears on their phone. This kind of data collection, he said, happens constantly, and its sole purpose is money, generated through today's consumption-driven system.
According to the expert, the real problem isn't targeted advertising itself but the fact that users often lack a genuine way to stop the data collection, since the advertising market generates enormous revenue. People who aren't doing anything illegal, Pilvre said, have nothing to fear — apart from the mild irritation of knowing someone is profiting from their data.
