LG to Suspend Smart TV Apps That Turn WebOS Devices into Residential Proxies

LG Electronics USA has announced plans to suspend any applications built for its smart TVs that turn the device into an always-on residential proxy node. The decision, reported by Krebs on Security, follows research published less than a month earlier which found that more than 42 percent of games and other apps available on LG's webOS store allow unknown third parties to route their internet traffic through a user's TV.

Residential proxies use IP addresses assigned to home users, making traffic appear as if it originates from a legitimate household. While such services have legitimate uses, they can also be abused for ad fraud, credential stuffing, or bypassing geo-restrictions. The research highlighted that many apps on LG's platform were embedding proxy functionality without transparent disclosure, effectively turning consumers' televisions into unwitting network participants.

LG's response indicates a proactive step to protect user privacy and network integrity. The company plans to suspend apps that engage in this behavior, though specific enforcement timelines and the list of affected apps have not been disclosed. Users are advised to review app permissions and keep their TV firmware updated.

This development underscores the growing trend of IoT devices being repurposed for proxy networks, often without user awareness. While no active exploitation has been reported, the practice poses significant privacy risks and could expose users to legal or security liabilities. LG's action sets a precedent for other smart TV manufacturers to scrutinize app behaviors more closely.