Senators Ask FTC to Investigate Smart TVs for Invading Users' Privacy
Two US senators have asked the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to investigate smart TV makers amid fears and evidence that companies might be using devices to collect data and track users without their knowledge.
According to a public letter signed by Senators Edward Markey (Democrat, Massachusetts) and Richard Blumenthal (Democrat, Connecticut), the two have expressed concerns about the practices of some smart TV companies.
Many internet-connected smart TVs are equipped with sophisticated technologies that can track the content users are watching and then use that information to tailor and deliver targeted advertisements to consumers. By identifying the broadcast and cable shows, video games, over-the-top content like Netflix, and other applications that users are viewing, smart TVs can compile detailed profiles about users' preferences and characteristics. Recent reports even suggest that smart TVs can identify users' political affiliations based on whether they watch conservative or liberal media outlets.
