The Truth Behind the TV Smart Stick Scam: What You Need to Know

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Written by: Lapain Epuran

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The TV Smart Stick, also marketed as TVSmart Stick, has been popping up across online ads with eye-catching claims like “access to all channels,” “no cable needed,” and even “AI-powered streaming.” But if you’re considering buying one, you should know this device isn’t the miracle product it pretends to be. In fact, it’s a textbook example of a misleading tech scam—and thousands of people are being duped.

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A Closer Look at the False Claims

The ads for TV Smart Stick promise the impossible. They suggest that for a one-time purchase, you’ll get full access to premium services such as Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, HBO Max, Apple TV+, and more—completely free. They go even further by stating you can ditch your cable service and still watch all your favorite channels, with no subscriptions required.

But these claims don’t hold up. Not even close.

Fake Endorsements and a Phony News Site

The marketing funnel for the TVSmart Stick begins with fake credibility. Ads often direct users to what looks like a tech news article from a publication called TechTrends. But if you look at the URL, you’ll see it leads to tv-smart.co—not a legitimate news outlet.

There is no real publication called TechTrends backing this product. The entire article is a fabricated pitch disguised as a news story, designed to gain your trust and push you toward a purchase.

What You’re Really Buying

What’s actually being sold is a rebranded G96 TV Stick—a generic, low-cost device that’s widely available on bulk retail websites for a fraction of what TV Smart Stick sellers charge.

It’s not illegal to sell a media stick. What’s deceptive is:

  • Pretending it unlocks premium streaming platforms for free.
  • Misleading customers into thinking it’s a cable TV replacement.
  • Charging 5 to 10 times its actual value.

This is a dropshipping scam—the seller never touches the product, they just forward your order to a third-party supplier and pocket the markup.

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The Reality of What It Can (and Can’t) Do

The TV Smart Stick cannot and does not provide free access to premium streaming content. You will still need to log in with valid accounts—and pay—if you want to use services like:

  • Netflix
  • Hulu
  • Disney+
  • HBO Max
  • Peacock
  • Apple TV+

As for “access to all channels,” what the device might provide are links to public domain or free ad-supported channels, like NBC News Now or Pluto TV. These are already accessible on any smart device and don’t require a special dongle.

A Classic Case of Deceptive Marketing

Let’s break down how this scam works:

  1. Fake urgency – Phrases like “selling out fast” or “50% discount today only” pressure buyers into quick decisions.
  2. Fabricated reviews – Many “customer reviews” on the site appear scripted or stolen from unrelated products.
  3. Misleading features – Claims of “AI-powered tech” and “instant access to all channels” are pure fluff.

What You Should Do Instead

If you’re looking to cut the cord on cable, there are legitimate ways to do it:

  • Use a Roku, Amazon Fire Stick, or Google Chromecast, which are backed by reputable companies.
  • Subscribe to services like YouTube TV, Hulu Live, or Sling TV, which legally stream live TV.
  • Use a digital antenna to get over-the-air channels for free.

All of these options are safer, better supported, and far more transparent than the TVSmart Stick.

Final Thoughts

The TV Smart Stick is a clear example of deceptive tech marketing designed to exploit consumer confusion around streaming and subscriptions. It relies on fake endorsements, bogus promises, and inflated pricing to make a quick profit.

If something sounds too good to be true—especially in the world of streaming services—it probably is. Always verify claims, check reviews from real sources, and stick with trusted brands.

Don’t pay premium prices for a low-grade gadget wrapped in lies. Stay smart, stay skeptical, and share this information to help others avoid falling for the same trap.

How to Stay Safe Online

Here are 10 basic security tips to help you avoid malware and protect your device:

  1. Use a good antivirus and keep it up-to-date.

    Shield Guide

    It's essential to use a good quality antivirus and keep it up-to-date to stay ahead of the latest cyber threats. We are huge fans of Malwarebytes Premium and use it on all of our devices, including Windows and Mac computers as well as our mobile devices. Malwarebytes sits beside your traditional antivirus, filling in any gaps in its defenses, and providing extra protection against sneakier security threats.

  2. Keep software and operating systems up-to-date.

    updates-guide

    Keep your operating system and apps up to date. Whenever an update is released for your device, download and install it right away. These updates often include security fixes, vulnerability patches, and other necessary maintenance.

  3. Be careful when installing programs and apps.

    install guide

    Pay close attention to installation screens and license agreements when installing software. Custom or advanced installation options will often disclose any third-party software that is also being installed. Take great care in every stage of the process and make sure you know what it is you're agreeing to before you click "Next."

  4. Install an ad blocker.

    Ad Blocker

    Use a browser-based content blocker, like AdGuard. Content blockers help stop malicious ads, Trojans, phishing, and other undesirable content that an antivirus product alone may not stop.

  5. Be careful what you download.

    Trojan Horse

    A top goal of cybercriminals is to trick you into downloading malware—programs or apps that carry malware or try to steal information. This malware can be disguised as an app: anything from a popular game to something that checks traffic or the weather.

  6. Be alert for people trying to trick you.

    warning sign

    Whether it's your email, phone, messenger, or other applications, always be alert and on guard for someone trying to trick you into clicking on links or replying to messages. Remember that it's easy to spoof phone numbers, so a familiar name or number doesn't make messages more trustworthy.

  7. Back up your data.

    backup sign

    Back up your data frequently and check that your backup data can be restored. You can do this manually on an external HDD/USB stick, or automatically using backup software. This is also the best way to counter ransomware. Never connect the backup drive to a computer if you suspect that the computer is infected with malware.

  8. Choose strong passwords.

    lock sign

    Use strong and unique passwords for each of your accounts. Avoid using personal information or easily guessable words in your passwords. Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on your accounts whenever possible.

  9. Be careful where you click.

    cursor sign

    Be cautious when clicking on links or downloading attachments from unknown sources. These could potentially contain malware or phishing scams.

  10. Don't use pirated software.

    Shady Guide

    Avoid using Peer-to-Peer (P2P) file-sharing programs, keygens, cracks, and other pirated software that can often compromise your data, privacy, or both.

To avoid potential dangers on the internet, it's important to follow these 10 basic safety rules. By doing so, you can protect yourself from many of the unpleasant surprises that can arise when using the web.

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