Samsung settles Texas smart TV data collection lawsuit

Samsung has reached a settlement agreement with the State of Texas regarding allegations of unlawfully collecting content-viewing information through its smart TVs. The agreement mandates that Samsung revise its privacy disclosures to clearly explain its data collection and processing practices to consumers, according to a recent report by Bleeping Computer.

The lawsuit, filed by Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, accused Samsung of using Automated Content Recognition (ACR) technology to capture screenshots of consumers' TVs to determine viewing habits, which were then used for targeted advertising. The state alleged that Samsung automatically enrolled customers in this system using "dark patterns," requiring over 200 clicks across multiple menus to access privacy statements.

While Samsung maintains its practices complied with existing regulations, it has agreed to enhance its privacy disclosures and halt the collection or processing of ACR viewing data without express consent from Texas consumers.

Source: Bleeping Computer