Researcher reverse engineers Samsung smart TV firmware, finds always-on microphone and user tracking

A researcher reverse-engineered Samsung smart TV firmware and discovered functions including an always-on microphone, automatic content recognition, geo-positioning, and user profile building. The findings reveal that TVs without built-in microphones may listen via connected devices. Samsung publicly advertises some tracking features for pet and family care. Cybersecurity experts note AI is lowering the barrier to reverse engineering, potentially exposing more hidden device functionality.