Samsung TV privacy and ads settings: how to limit tracking
Smart TVs can collect information about what you watch and show personalised adverts. You can usually limit this, although the options differ between models.
What may be collected
A TV can record which apps and programmes you use and may use that to show adverts. Voice features may listen for commands. You may be asked to agree when you first set up the TV.
Where to look
On recent Samsung TVs, the privacy options are normally under Settings > All Settings > General & Privacy. Look for Terms & Privacy and then options such as Privacy Choices. Wording and location change between models and years, and we cannot give one exact path for every TV. Use the e-Manual or Settings search for "privacy" or "advertising".
Common options to look for
- Interest-based advertising or personalised adverts, which you can usually turn off
- Viewing information services, which collect what you watch, and which may be an option to switch off
- Voice recognition features
- Internet connected features for app suggestions
Switching off these options may reduce adverts, though you will probably still see some on the Home screen.
Tips
- Read each switch carefully. Turning off a service may remove a feature.
- Do not sign in to accounts you do not need.
- Check privacy settings again after big software updates, as they can change.
Voice and cameras
If your TV has a microphone switch or a voice setting, switch it off if you do not use it. If your TV has a camera, keep it covered or switched off when not needed.
If you want to be very private
You can keep the TV offline and use a separate streaming stick. This reduces what the TV can send, but you lose smart features.
Be careful of scams
Samsung will not phone you out of the blue asking for remote access to your TV or payment. See our scam guides.
When to get more help
If you cannot find the settings or are worried about what the TV is sharing, Vision Tech can help you work through the menus safely.