An investigation by Gamers Nexus found LG smart TVs sweep local networks to map phones and nearby devices. Tests also showed the sets can capture microphone audio with the screen off — they then upload data once reconnected to the internet.
You should watch the videos. The tvs also scan for open WiFi networks, like the ones att and xfinity offer and potentially can send your data even if you’ve personally never connected the tv to any network.
10 minutes 35 second in, he addresses this common misconception
I see their problem
i got my LG TV for free (long story) It’s never been connected to the internet.
It runs off an adb modified Nvidia Shield Pro and 80% of its work is with Kodi, 20% with local FTA apps.
You should watch the videos. The tvs also scan for open WiFi networks, like the ones att and xfinity offer and potentially can send your data even if you’ve personally never connected the tv to any network.
10 minutes 35 second in, he addresses this common misconception
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=6IFVTcM28KA&t=635