It has been known for years that smart TVs analyze what you watch in order to show you recommendations and advertisements. What many don’t know is that tracking doesn’t stop at streaming apps, as the TV can also analyze content coming from HDMI devices, such as consoles, Blu-ray players or set-top boxes.
There are two main tracking mechanisms:
- HDMI-CEC metapodaci
- HDMI-CEC (Consumer Electronics Control) allows you to control multiple devices with one remote control. To do this, the HDMI device sends identification data to the TV. Based on this, the TV knows which device is connected and how long it is used (for example: which profile uses a certain HDMI input and for how many hours).
How the TV monitors content via HDMI
Automatic Content Recognition (ACR)
This is a far more invasive method. The TV takes micro-snapshots of the screen at the pixel level, regardless of the signal source, and uses algorithms to recognize exactly which movie, series or game you’re watching. Researchers from the University of California, Davis have shown that ACR works even when the TV is used only as a “regular screen”.
How to turn off tracking (without drastic measures)
If you want more privacy, here are the steps you can take right away.
1. Turn off ACR – the most important step
This option is often hidden deep in the privacy and terms of use menus. Names vary by manufacturer:
Samsung: Viewing Information Services
LG: Live Plus
Vizio: Viewing Data
Sony / Google TV: Help & Feedback ili Usage & Diagnostics
TCL / Roku TV: Smart TV Experience
Hisense: Smart TV Experience ili Viewing Information Services
Fire TV: Automatic Content Recognition
After switching off, the TV should no longer analyze the content you are watching.
2. Turn off HDMI-CEC
If you don’t mind using multiple remotes, turning off HDMI-CEC further reduces data exchange between devices.
Path in the menu by device manufacturer:
Samsung: Settings → Connection → External Device Manager → Anynet+
LG: Settings → General ili Connection → Device Connection Settings → SimpLink
Sony: Settings → Channels & Inputs → External Inputs → Bravia Sync
TCL: Settings → Channels & Inputs → Inputs → Control Other Devices (CEC)
Hisense: Settings → System ili Connection → HDMI & CEC
Google TV: Settings → Display & Sound → HDMI CEC
3. Use an HDMI adapter without CEC
If you don’t trust the software, there is also a hardware option. The HDMI CEC-blocker adapter physically removes the CEC data transmission pin, but does not affect the picture and sound. Manufacturer BlueRigger offers these adapters individually or in sets.
4. Turn off the internet or use a VPN
The most radical, but also the safest, option is to completely disconnect the TV from the Wi-Fi or Ethernet network. Without an internet connection, the data cannot be sent to the manufacturer. An alternative is to install a VPN on the TV, which changes the IP address and makes tracking difficult.
What to pay attention to
Disabling these options may affect certain features, such as voice commands, universal search, or device automation. Also, after a system update, some settings may be reset to their default values, so it’s advisable to periodically check if they’re still turned off. In short, a little tweaking can significantly reduce the amount of data your TV collects about your viewing habits, without having to give up modern features, writes ZDNET.