LG Smart TVs to Ban Residential Proxies in App Store Following Security Concerns
In a move aimed at strengthening its users’ online security, LG Electronics USA has announced plans to suspend any apps built for its smart TVs that turn one’s television into an always-on residential proxy node. This decision comes on the heels of a recent report by security firm Spur, which found that over 42% of games and other apps available for download on LG’s webOS store include software development kits (SDKs) that enable unknown third-parties to route their internet traffic through a user’s TV.
The residential proxy SDKs in question allow companies to turn users’ devices into proxy nodes, which are then rented out to paying customers. This practice has raised concerns about the potential for malicious activity, including data scraping and unauthorized access to users’ personal networks. Spur’s research highlighted that even simple games like Pac-Man and screensavers can come bundled with these SDKs.
LG Senior Vice President John Taylor confirmed that the company is working with app developers to remove the residential proxy option from their apps on the webOS platform. Developers who fail to comply will have their apps suspended, indicating a strong stance against this practice. “A residential proxy network is not an intended use for LG smart TVs,” Taylor emphasized.
The prevalence of residential proxy SDKs in smart TV apps has sparked debate about the responsibility of device manufacturers and app developers when it comes to protecting users’ online security. Spur’s report argued that while residential proxy networks are not inherently malicious, their presence in devices like smart TVs raises significant concerns due to the lack of transparency and user control.
LG’s decision to ban residential proxies from its app store is a welcome step towards prioritizing user security, but it also highlights the need for greater scrutiny of partnerships between device manufacturers and third-party companies. For instance, LG has recently faced criticism for promoting McAfee antivirus products through software drivers included in its high-end LCD monitors.
In light of this development, smart TV owners should be aware that they may have unknowingly opened their devices to potential security risks by installing apps with residential proxy SDKs. To mitigate these risks, users can take the following steps:
* Regularly review and update their app settings to ensure they are not inadvertently contributing to a residential proxy network.
* Be cautious when installing new apps on their smart TVs, especially if they come bundled with unfamiliar or untrusted third-party services.
* Consider using a reputable security solution that specifically addresses the unique risks associated with smart home devices.
Source: Krebs on Security — 2026-07-22