Samsung announced it will ban smart TV apps that expose users' internet connections after a security flaw was discovered. A cybersecurity firm, Mnemonic, reported that certain apps on Samsung’s platform can turn a TV into a residential proxy, routing strangers’ traffic through the home connection and making requests appear to come from the user. The discovery was first reported by TechCrunch, which brought the security flaw to public attention, and Samsung’s response reflects growing pressure on manufacturers to secure smart ecosystems.

One problematic app was a Pac‑Man game listed in Samsung’s Editor’s Choice section. According to Mnemonic, installing the game can instantly convert a smart TV into a residential proxy exit node. Samsung confirmed the vulnerability and said it would ban any apps sharing users’ internet connections and implement strict platform‑wide policies that explicitly prohibit residential proxy SDKs. Users are advised to avoid installing unverified apps from third‑party stores.

The problem is not limited to Samsung. Last month, LG announced it would suspend apps capable of turning TVs into residential proxies, as reported by Krebs On Security, highlighting industry‑wide efforts to curb proxy abuse. Experts warn that free VPNs often bundle proxy functionality, making user education critical.