LG and Samsung Smart TV Apps Found Monetizing Users’ IP Addresses via Proxy SDKs

Gbhackers •Divya • June 23, 2026

A large-scale analysis of smart TV applications has revealed that thousands of apps available on LG webOS and Samsung Tizen platforms are covertly transforming consumer devices into residential proxy nodes, raising significant security and privacy concerns. Researchers scanned 6,038 smart TV applications and identified 2,058 apps that embed proxy software development kits, monetizing users’ internet […]

The full story

This article is one source in a clustered incident — the cluster page carries the summary, timeline and every other outlet covering it.

LG and Samsung Smart TV Apps Exploit Users' IP Addresses via Proxy SDKs A recent analysis revealed that 2,058 out of 6,038 apps on LG webOS and Samsung Tizen platforms contain residential proxy SDKs, which allow these apps to monetize users' internet traffic. The study found that 42.5% of LG apps and 26.9% of Samsung apps are involved. These apps, which appear harmless (like fish tanks or clocks), covertly transform smart TVs into proxy nodes, raising significant privacy and security concerns. Users are often unaware of the implications of granting consent, as the proxy software continues to operate even after the app is closed. This situation highlights a gap in user awareness regarding the risks associated with smart TV applications. Companies like Bright Data and Honeygain are identified as major players in this proxy SDK market. The findings suggest a need for stricter regulations and user education regarding smart device applications. 4 sources 68

LG and Samsung Smart TV Apps Found Monetizing Users’ IP Addresses via Proxy SDKs

The full story

Extracted Entities

Platforms (2)

Tools (1)