ACR, automatic content recognition, is smart TV tracking: the TV samples what is on screen, works out what you are watching, and reports it for ads. Tested sets do it on HDMI inputs too.

Is my TV spying on me?

If it runs ACR, it reports what is on screen for ads until you switch it off. Type your model above to see if yours does.

Will turning it off break anything?

No. Apps, inputs and updates keep working. You may lose personalised recommendations.

Does the lookup send my data anywhere?

No. It runs in your browser. No cookies, nothing sent to anyone.

If there is a switch, why build the Box?

A menu switch is the maker's promise, and updates can move it. The Box blocks the traffic itself and shows you the proof.

A dark living room at night, lit only by the television. Two people on the sofa watch it from behind.

Illustration of what content recognition reads

Is your TV watching you?

Most big-brand TVs track what is on screen and sell it for ads. Type your model to see if yours does, and how to turn it off.

How often an LG TV reports back

Each square is one connection. To its tracking service Anywhere else

Before you tap Agree

0

connections to its tracking service

An LG G3 used as a computer monitor for an hour. It still reached LG's advertising servers.
Watch the capture at 28:43
After you tap Agree

44

of 107 connections went to its tracking service

The same TV, used the same way.
Watch the capture at 29:36
Watching LG's own channels

618

of 847 connections went to its tracking service

A newer LG, for about 50 minutes. Used as a monitor, it made 54.
Watch the capture at 30:13

Wireshark captures by Gamers Nexus, 2026. Other brands were not measured.

Connections from LG TVs in three measured sessions
Session	To the tracking service	All connections	Source
Before you tap Agree	0	not given	Gamers Nexus, 28:43
After you tap Agree	44	107	Gamers Nexus, 29:36
Watching LG's own channels	618	847	Gamers Nexus, 30:13

Vizio too. The FTC made Vizio pay for tracking every input without consent. FTC, 2017
Texas sued five brands. Samsung and LG have since agreed to ask Texans first. See the cases

“We own the glass.
We own the TV.”

Serge Matta, President, LG Ad Solutions. Watch at 3:38

LG calls it “a double opt-in experience.” Gamers Nexus tested it and “only received a single opt‑in.” At 1:15:35

Two ways to stop it

Switch it off tonight for free. Or block it on every TV at home with the Box.

Free

Turn it off in settings

It can take 10 to 37 clicks to find. We show the exact path for yours.

Find my TV's setting

Guides for Samsung, LG, Vizio, TCL, Hisense, Sony, Roku, Fire TV and more.

Our drawing of LG's menu, not a photograph.

The Box

Block it on every TV at home

Plug it in. It blocks your TVs' tracking and shows you what it stopped. Not built yet.

Concept model of the Box: a flat, square black device with a glass top and one amber light at the front. — Concept model. The Box is not built yet.

Questions

What is ACR on a TV?: ACR, automatic content recognition, is smart TV tracking: the TV samples what is on screen, works out what you are watching, and reports it for ads. Tested sets do it on HDMI inputs too.
Is my TV spying on me?: If it runs ACR, it reports what is on screen for ads until you switch it off. Type your model above to see if yours does.
Will turning it off break anything?: No. Apps, inputs and updates keep working. You may lose personalised recommendations.
Does the lookup send my data anywhere?: No. It runs in your browser. No cookies, nothing sent to anyone.
If there is a switch, why build the Box?: A menu switch is the maker's promise, and updates can move it. The Box blocks the traffic itself and shows you the proof.