Disclaimer: We sustain our work & review products through paid collaborations.
Privacy Concerns over Smart TVs

Privacy Concerns over Smart TVs


The “olden” days of television where the broadcasted shows were short, but the device was big and heavy, faded into oblivion long ago. So-called smart TVshave surely conquered our living room and they intend to occupy it in the future too. No one argues that smart technology makes our lives easier, but it’s also true that the Internet of Things is a tricky and somewhat dangerous place. Smart TVs are no exception and they’re probably the last device you’d accuse of spying on you. However, over the last few years the market has seen nothing but an increase in smart TV offers as well as some snooping attempts against individual privacy, reported by users. Fortunately, setting up a VPN router is a more than ideal answer for privacy intrusions. A VPN-protected router can help keeping intrusive snooping in check while it also removes unnecessary roadblocks, resulting in an increase in streaming speed.

Known cases of intrusive smart TVs

Even though voice technology and apps are popular features of smart TVs, they are a two edged-knife. In a not-so distant past, companies such as Samsung and LG were detested for sending users’ voice recognition data and other text information to the company without encrypting it. We don’t need to press the dreadful consequences of having this data intercepted by an eavesdropper on the web. That unfortunate – yet possible – event would be the open door hackers need in order to access your home network and wreak havoc.

Furthermore, Vizio, one of the top-selling smart TV companies, is currently under a lawsuit for violating the federal Video Privacy Protection Act – a norm that forbids video providers from the disclosure of customers’ video history without previous consent. Allegedly, the company shared private user data – including IP and MAC addresses, product serial numbers and more – with other companies for targeted advertisement purposes, which would be displayed on other smart devices owned by their customers, including phones and tablets.

Protecting your smart tv with the help of a vpn

As you know, VPN routers are your best choice for assuring privacy and protection against internet connected devices that don’t support a VPN directly – like smart TVs. With such a handy unit you can extend your safety shield to affect all devices connected to your network, extending the safety net to your smart home. VPN routers can also help you to boost your streaming speed, although the increase will always depend on your own ISP’s provided signal. However, VPNs have different protocols that suit best for each user, granting a stronger encryption or a faster connection. All you need to do is choose a fast VPN protocol and a server with good speed and you can rest assured of a nice and safe movie night, circumventing any geo-blocks that might get in your way.


Best VPN services of 2025

Editor's choice

NordVPN

Editor's rating:
Easy to use on any device
Extra privacy and file sharing
Comprehensive online protection
Fast and reliable connections
Security

Surfshark

Editor's rating:
Easy to use everywhere
Enhanced online privacy
Fast and secure connections
Protect unlimited devices
Multi-device users

IPVanish

Editor's rating:
Protect all your devices
Ensures user privacy
Help anytime you need it
Strong online protection
Gaming

ExpressVPN

Editor's rating:
Works on all major platforms
Fast, smooth browsing
Easy for anyone to use
Added features for flexibility
Traveling

CyberGhost VPN

Editor's rating:
Enhanced privacy and security
Fair prices
Flexible IP address options
Protects all your devices
Streaming

ZoogVPN

Editor's rating:
Affordable VPN solution
Fast and stable connections
Straightforward platform
Protects your online privacy
Torrenting

Private Internet Access

Editor's rating:
Multiple device compatibility
Keeps your IP address private
Suitable for all users
Tailor settings to your needs
Beginners

TunnelBear

Editor's rating:
Intuitive and easy to use
Extra privacy and security
Blocks trackers and ads
Smooth, fast browsing

Discussions

Share your thoughts, ask questions, and connect with other users. Your feedback helps our community make better decisions.

©2012-2025 Best Reviews, a clovio brand – All rights reserved