tech
Ads and tracking infiltrated TVs. Now they're coming for monitors.
Each month, we’ll examine the biggest controversial changes to tech products: what changed, why it’s happening, how users are affected, and how companies can do better.
TL;DR
- LG monitors were discovered installing an app called LG Monitor App Installer that pushed ads onto connected PCs, disguised as driver updates.
- Microsoft has since forced LG to remove these McAfee ads, but the method of installation remains a concern.
- LG claims the app does not collect personal information, but skepticism remains due to past practices and broad privacy policies.
- Smart monitors, which connect to the internet and run their own OS, are increasingly incorporating ad-serving systems similar to smart TVs.
- LG and Samsung smart monitors have been observed tracking user activity, with privacy policies from LG, Samsung, and Acer indicating data may be shared with advertisers.
- Users should prioritize monitors that allow easy disabling of tracking, ideally prompted during setup, and regular monitors should remain available as an ad-free alternative.