Technology LG and Alienware monitors caught auto-installing Windows adware

[Gandalf_The_Grey]

Content source

https://www.techspot.com/news/113031-lg-alienware-monitors-caught-auto-installing-windows-adware.html

Adware is usually associated with pre-built PCs and dubious free downloads, but some users recently discovered that even legitimate monitors can quietly install apps that display pop-ups without permission. Fixing the issue seems to require changing local group policy settings or, in extreme cases, disabling the Microsoft Store altogether.

Redditor "Mags_Smash" recently complained about seeing McAfee pop-up ads on his PC despite never having installed the antivirus suite. He eventually traced the ads back to another app that his new LG monitor had installed without his knowledge.

After connecting one LG UltraGear 27GP83B monitor and two 27GN800s, Mags_Smash found that at least one of the panels had installed an "LG Monitor App Installer" via the Microsoft Store and Windows Update. The application shows up under the name "9PM9N6F47JB8-LGElectronics.LGMonitorApp" in Reliability Monitor, and Event Viewer logged its successful installation.

Several others reported the same problem after coming across the discussion, and some found their own systems were affected once they went looking. Others confirmed similar behavior with Dell and Alienware monitors, comparing it to how Asus motherboards automatically install the company's Armory Crate software.

LG and Alienware monitors caught auto-installing Windows adware

Redditor "Mags_Smash" recently complained about seeing McAfee pop-up ads on his PC despite never having installed the antivirus suite. He eventually traced the ads back to another...

www.techspot.com

 

[Sunqfu]

I read that they wanted to provide LG and Alienware users with robust protection

 

[Sorrento]

The scheming rotters! Is nothing safe? I ignore most ads such I accidentally see them anyway.

 

[nickstar1]

It really frustrates me that all these smart TVs, fridges, and dishwashers, which often cost over $2,000, end up serving more advertisements to the people buying them. The government needs to implement stronger protections against these practices.

 

[stonjean633]

One solution for this, block ADS at the network level. Use a router that can run ADGuard Home/ Diversion.
If not,use the DNS of known adblockers.

 

[RoboMan]

It really frustrates me that all these smart TVs, fridges, and dishwashers, which often cost over $2,000, end up serving more advertisements to the people buying them. The government needs to implement stronger protections against these practices.

It's outrageous and it should be regulated by the authorities. There are some smartphones too that show ads on the operating system. The moment I paid real money for your product, you have no case whatsoever serving me with ads.