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Samsung bans smart TV apps sharing internet connections

·1 min read·2 outlets

The short version

Samsung announced it will ban smart TV apps that share users' internet connections with external networks. The move follows security research exposing residential proxy networks using such apps.

Samsung said it will remove smart TV apps that expose users' internet connections to external networks.2 The company stated the ban targets apps that route a user's internet traffic through third parties.2 Security research revealed residential proxy networks rely on apps that share a person's internet connection with strangers.1

Residential proxy networks use these apps to route traffic through users' devices without their knowledge.1 Samsung did not specify a timeline for removing the affected apps from its smart TV platform.2 The company did not disclose how many apps or users are currently impacted by the policy change.2

Why it matters

  • A residential proxy network is a system where users' internet connections are used to route traffic for others, often without explicit consent.1

  • Smart TV apps are software applications installed on internet-connected televisions to provide streaming, gaming, or utility services.2

This account was written from the 2 reports listed below, filed by 2 independent outlets, and checked against them line by line. It is not a copy of any one of them. Spotted an error? Tell us.

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2 source reports

2 outlets · 1 countries · citation numbers match the article

  1. 1

    TechCrunch · US

    Samsung bans smart TV apps that share users’ internet connections with strangers

    Aug 3, 2026

  2. 2

    Engadget · US

    Samsung says it's banning smart TV apps that expose users' internet connections

    Aug 3, 2026

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